Question

When providing morning care for a client, the nurse identifies crusty debris around the client's eyes. Which of the following should the nurse implement when cleaning the client's eyes? Select all that apply

1. Wear sterile gloves
2. Use a tear-free baby soap
3. Position the client on the same side as the eye to be cleaned
4. Wash the eyes with cotton balls from the inner to outer canthus
5. Use a separate cotton ball for each stroke when washing the eyes

Answer 1

When cleaning a client's eyes, the nurse should wear gloves, optionally use tear-free soap, position the client appropriately, wash from the inner to the outer canthus using a separate, clean cotton ball for each stroke.

Step-by-step explanation:

When providing morning care for a client, the nurse identifies crusty debris around the client's eyes, the nurse should implement specific procedures for cleaning the client's eyes. Wearing gloves is important, although they do not need to be sterile for this procedure unless the patient's condition specifically requires it. A gentle, tear-free soap such as baby soap could be used if needed, but usually plain warm water is sufficient. It is also recommended to have the client positioned on their back or slightly to the side, opposite the eye being cleaned, to prevent contamination from the cleaned area to the other eye or parts of the face. Using a clean, damp cotton ball for each wipe, carefully wash the eyes from the inner canthus (near the nose) to the outer canthus to remove crust and debris. Moreover, a separate cotton ball should be used for each stroke to prevent re-introducing debris or bacteria and to ensure a thorough, hygienic cleaning process.