Question

The nurse is providing instructions to a client who will be self-administering eyedrops. To minimize the systemic effects that eyedrops can produce, the client is instructed to:

Option 1: Close both eyes tightly after instilling drops.
Option 2: Blink rapidly for 1 minute after instilling drops.
Option 3: Perform the Valsalva maneuver after instilling drops.
Option 4: Apply gentle pressure to the inner canthus after instilling drops.

Answer 1

To minimize the systemic effects of eyedrops, the client should close both eyes tightly after instilling drops.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client is instructed to close both eyes tightly after instilling drops in order to minimize the systemic effects of eyedrops. This helps to prevent the drops from draining into the tear ducts and potentially entering the bloodstream. By keeping the eyes closed, the drops are more likely to stay on the surface of the eye and target the desired area.