Question

A medical assistant is caring for a patient who has conjunctivitis. Which of the following actions should the assistant take when performing an eye installation?

1) Irrigate the eye with tap water
2) Use a sterile, single-use applicator to apply the medication
3) Apply the medication directly to the center of the eye
4) Rub the eye gently to ensure the medication is absorbed

Answer 1

A medical assistant should use a sterile, single-use applicator to apply the medication for conjunctivitis. Tap water should be avoided, and the medication should be applied to the lower conjunctival sac.

Step-by-step explanation:

When performing an eye installation for a patient with conjunctivitis, a medical assistant should:

1. Use a sterile, single-use applicator to apply the medication. This helps prevent the spread of infection and ensures cleanliness.
2. Avoid irrigating the eye with tap water as it can introduce more bacteria and irritants.
3. Apply the medication to the lower conjunctival sac by gently pulling the lower eyelid down and putting the drops or ointment in the space between the eyelid and the eye.