Eye, Ear, and Nose Injuries
Lesson 1: Irrigate, Instill Eye Drops, and Apply Ointments to the Eye
1-6
1-6. APPLY OPHTHALMIC OINTMENT
This task is similar to instilling drops into a patient's eye. You must again be aware of the correct patient, the correct eye, and the correct ointment.
a. Preparation.
(1) Identify the patient by his name. Inform the patient of the need and the reason for applying ointment to the eye. Explain the procedures and ask the patient to remove his contact lenses/ glasses, if applicable. Ensure you know the correct eye for the treatment.
(2) Verify the medication requirements to include the type of medication, the correct amount, concentration, and the temperature for administration.
(3) Position the patient.
(a) Patient lying in bed.
1 Place the patient in a supine position.
2 Position light/lamp. Ensure there is adequate light and avoid shinning the light directly over the patient.
3 Tilt the patient's head slightly to the side to instill eyedrops.
(b) Patient sitting up.
1 Have the patient place his head in an inclined position to the side to apply ointment.
2 Position light/lamp. Ensure there is adequate light and avoid shining the light directly over the patient.
3 Tilt the patient's head slightly backwards.
4 Support the patient's head.
(4) Perform a patient care handwash.
b. Apply Ointment.
(1) Expel a small amount of ointment from the tube (see figure 1-4).
(2) Squeeze (with your hand) a ribbon of ointment about 4 cm (one and one half inches) into the patient's lower eyelid.
CAUTION: Do not touch any part of the patient's eye with the tube.
Figure 1-4. Ointment expelled.
c. Handwash. Perform a patient care handwash.
d. Record Treatment. Include the time, type of medication, and the eye to which medication was applied.
