k. Instruct the patient to close the eyes gently (without squeezing the lids shut),
and roll the eyes. This will distribute the medication.
l. Remove any excess solution or ointment from around the eye by blotting
gently with a clean tissue or gauze square.
m. Apply a fresh dressing if required.
n. Provide for the patient's comfort.
o. Remove supplies from the bedside and store or discard as appropriate.
p. Wash your hands.
q. Record the procedure in the patient's clinical record.
1-14. IRRIGATING THE EYE
a. Wash your hands and assemble the necessary equipment.
(1)
Towel.
(2)
Chux pads.
(3)
Sterile gauze pads.
(4)
Tissues.
(5)
Irrigation solution (at room temperature).
(6)
Emesis basin.
b. Approach and identify the patient.
c. Explain the procedure to the patient.
d. Assist the patient into the supine position, with the head turned toward the
affected side.
e. Place a chux pad under the patient's head to protect the bed linen. Place an
emesis basin against the affected side, next to the cheek, to catch the solution as it runs
off.
f. Using the thumb and index finger of your non-dominant hand, separate the
patient's eyelids.
MD0919
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