A nurse is planning to administer an ophthalmic medication to a client. Which of the following actions will
minimize systemic absorption of the medication?
Apply light pressure to the inner canthus just after instilling the eye drops
Wipe the eye from the inner to the outer canthus with a sterile saline-moistened coton ball
Administer the medication drops directly into the lower conjunctival sac of each eye
Wait 5 min after instillation before instilling the drops in the other eye
None
None
The Correct Answer is A
Answer: A. Apply light pressure to the inner canthus just after instilling the eye drops.
Rationale:
A) Apply light pressure to the inner canthus just after instilling the eye drops.
Applying pressure to the inner canthus (the corner of the eye nearest the nose) helps occlude the nasolacrimal duct. This action reduces the systemic absorption of the medication by preventing it from draining into the nasal passages and subsequently into the systemic circulation, thus enhancing the local effect of the eye drops.
B) Wipe the eye from the inner to the outer canthus with a sterile saline-moistened cotton ball.
While this action may help remove excess medication or discharge, it does not minimize systemic absorption. Instead, wiping the eye could inadvertently spread the medication to other areas, increasing the chance of absorption rather than reducing it.
C) Administer the medication drops directly into the lower conjunctival sac of each eye.
While placing drops in the lower conjunctival sac is a standard practice for delivering ophthalmic medications, it does not directly influence systemic absorption. The main goal is to ensure adequate dosing in the eye, but systemic absorption can still occur if the drops drain into the nasolacrimal duct.
D) Wait 5 min after instillation before instilling the drops in the other eye.
Waiting between instillations is good practice to prevent dilution of the first dose and to allow for absorption. However, this action does not significantly impact systemic absorption. It focuses more on ensuring that the first dose is effective before administering a second dose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
After a patient dies, postmortem care includes preparing them for family viewing. The nurse should place the body in the supine position, with the arms at the sides and the head on a pillow. Then elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees to prevent discoloration from blood settling in the face .
The other options are not correct because:
b) The nurse should cleanse the client's body while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) based on indications for isolation precautions, not necessarily sterile gloves.
c) If the patient wore dentures and your facility’s policy permits, gently insert them; then close the mouth
d) The nurse should close the eyes by gently pressing on the lids with their fingertips. If they don’t stay closed, place moist coton balls on the eyelids for a few minutes, and then try again to close them. Surgical tape is not mentioned as necessary .

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
b. Seizure pads
Explanation:
The nurse should place seizure pads in the client's room when admitting a client with bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is an infection that affects the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It can cause inflammation and swelling of the brain, leading to an increased risk of seizures.
Seizure pads are specifically designed to provide a cushioning and protective barrier between the client's head and the hard surface, reducing the risk of injury during a seizure. They are placed on the bed or matress to help prevent head trauma or other injuries that may occur if a seizure occurs.
Now, let's discuss why the other options are not necessary for the client with bacterial meningitis:
a. Oral irrigating device:
An oral irrigating device is not necessary for a client with bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis primarily affects the central nervous system and does not require oral care interventions. The focus of care for these clients is on managing the infection, monitoring vital signs, and providing supportive care.
c. Sterile gloves:
While sterile gloves are commonly used in healthcare settings, they are not specifically required for the care of a client with bacterial meningitis. Standard precautions, including the use of non-sterile gloves, are sufficient for providing care to these clients. Sterile gloves are typically used for invasive procedures or when there is a need to maintain a sterile field.
d. Tongue blade:
A tongue blade is not necessary for the care of a client with bacterial meningitis. Tongue blades are typically used for oral assessments or when examining the throat, which are not directly related to the management or treatment of bacterial meningitis. The focus of care for these clients is on infection control, monitoring for complications, and providing comfort and support.
In summary, when admitting a client with bacterial meningitis, the nurse should prioritize placing seizure pads in the client's room to ensure their safety during potential seizure activity.

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