A nurse is caring for a 3-year-old child who has acute bacterial conjunctivitis of the right eye and has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Gently massage the eyelid to facilitate absorption of the medication.
Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward.
Place an occlusive dressing on the affected eye to prevent the spread of infection.
Instruct guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment every morning for 14 days.
The Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward
Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis.
Wiping any excess medication from the inner canthus outward, is important to prevent the accumulation of excessive ointment, which can cause discomfort and affect vision. Using a clean, sterile cotton ball or tissue, the nurse should gently wipe any excess ointment from the inner corner of the eye (inner canthus) and then move outward to remove the excess ointment.
Gently massaging the eyelid to facilitate absorption of the medication in (option A) is not recommended. It can potentially cause discomfort or further irritation to the affected eye, especially in a young child. The ointment will naturally spread across the eye as the child blinks.
Placing an occlusive dressing on the affected eye in (option C) is not necessary for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. It may impede proper air circulation and potentially worsen the infection. It is important to promote hygiene and prevent the spread of infection by encouraging proper handwashing and avoiding touching or rubbing the affected eye.
Instructing the guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment every morning for 14 days in (option D) is not appropriate in this case. Erythromycin is an alternative antibiotic commonly used for conjunctivitis, but since the child has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment, the appropriate course of treatment would be to follow the prescribed medication as directed by the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute with shallow respirations and cyanosis indicates significant respiratory distress and inadequate oxygenation. The client's airway needs to be assessed and cleared to ensure a proper flow of air into the lungs. This can involve positioning the client appropriately, providing manual or mechanical assistance with ventilation, or using other airway management techniques as necessary.
While administering oxygen to the client and placing a pulse oximeter on the client's finger are important interventions to improve oxygenation and monitor oxygen saturation, they should not delay the immediate priority of establishing a patent airway.
Checking the client's pulse rate is also important and should be done in a timely manner, but it should not take precedence over ensuring a clear and open airway for the client.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Correct answer: D
a.Artificial flowers are generally considered safer than fresh flowers because they do not harbor water, which can be a source of bacterial growth. However, they can collect dust, which might carry pathogens, though this is typically a lesser concern compared to fresh flowers.
b. Being assigned to a room with negative airflow is actually beneficial for a client with an immunocompromised condition, as it helps prevent the spread of airborne pathogens.
c.Hard boiled eggs do not inherently increase the risk of infection. However, it is important to ensure that all food items are properly prepared, handled, and stored to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
d. Fresh fruit can harbor bacteria and other pathogens on their surfaces, which can pose a significant risk to a neutropenic patient. Even with thorough washing, there is a higher risk compared to cooked or pasteurized foods.
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