Question

When giving eye medications, what should be done to prevent meds from going into nasal passage?

1) Pull the upper eye lid down against the lower
2) Pull the lower eye lid down against the upper
3) Squeeze the drop in the corner of the eye
4) Squeeze the drop in the middle of the eye

Answer 1

To prevent eye medication from entering the nasal passage, one should pull the lower eyelid down against the upper eyelid to create a pocket for medication administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

When giving eye medications, it is important to prevent the medication from entering the nasal passage through the nasolacrimal drainage system. To achieve this, one should pull the lower eyelid down against the upper eye lid, creating a small pocket or 'cul-de-sac' where the drop can be instilled. This is known as option 2) Pull the lower eyelid down against the upper. This technique helps to contain the medication in the intended area of the eye, reducing the likelihood of it draining away too quickly into the nasal passage through the nasolacrimal duct.