g. Perform a moderate irrigation:
(1) Direct a constant flow of irrigation solution toward the inner canthus of
the eye. Administer about one-half of the solution in the bottle. (Bottles of sterile
ophthalmic irrigation solution are available for moderate irrigations.)
(2)
Inspect the eye for foreign particles.
(3) Attempt to remove particles by touching them gently with a piece of
sterile gauze that has been moistened with the solution. The particle should adhere to
the gauze.
(4) Continue irrigation until the eye is clean or the prescribed amount of
solution has been used.
h. Perform a copious irrigation:
(1)
Attach IV tubing to a 1000cc container of sterile normal saline solution.
(2) Open the flow clamp, and direct a stream of fluid toward the inner
canthus of the eye. Do not allow the end of the IV tubing to touch the eye.
(3) Periodically stop the flow of solution and inspect for foreign particles. If
particles are seen, attempt to remove them in the same manner as described in g.(3)
above.
(4) Continue the irrigation until the eye is clean or the prescribed amount of
solution has been used.
i. Dry the eyelids by blotting gently from inner to outer corner with gauze
squares.
j.
Provide for the patient's comfort.
k. Remove supplies from the bedside and store or discard as appropriate.
l.
Wash your hands.
m. Record the procedure in the patient's clinical record.
a. Wash your hands and assemble the necessary equipment.
(1)
Sterile eye dressings (gauze squares or pre-cut eye patches).
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