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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Pelvic rocking exercises can help relieve lower back pain during pregnancy. The client can perform this exercise by getting on their hands and knees, keeping their back straight, and gently rocking their pelvis back and forth. This helps to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the lower back and pelvis.
Sit in a hot tub for 30 min every evening: Hot tubs and hot baths are not recommended during pregnancy as they can raise the body temperature too high, which can be harmful to the developing fetus.
Raise chairs to keep knees lower than hips: This recommendation is more appropriate for promoting good posture and reducing strain on the back, but it may not specifically address lower back pain.
Use the arms to pick up heavy items: It is important to avoid heavy lifting during pregnancy as it can strain the back and increase the risk of injury. It is recommended to use proper lifting techniques, such as bending the knees and using the leg muscles rather than the back muscles, to lift objects.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Delirium is a state of acute confusion and cognitive impairment that can cause disorientation and difficulty with time perception. Reminding the client of the day and time frequently helps provide orientation and reduce confusion. It can help ground the client in reality and improve their understanding of their current circumstances.
Avoiding discussing the client's fears can hinder their ability to express and address their concerns. It is important to provide a safe and supportive environment where the client can communicate their fears and feelings.
Offering the client several choices at mealtimes might be overwhelming and confusing for someone experiencing delirium. It is generally better to provide structure and simplicity in their meal options, reducing decision-making demands.
Alternating daily caregivers can disrupt continuity of care and increase the client's confusion. Consistency in the caregiving team can help establish a therapeutic relationship and familiarity, which can aid in managing delirium.
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