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 C
Explanation
The nurse should clarify the prescription for cefazolin with the provider. Cefazolin is a cephalosporin antibiotic, and there is a risk of cross-reactivity in individuals who have an allergy to penicillin.
a) Doxycycline and b) Vibramycin (which is another name for doxycycline) are tetracycline antibiotics and are not related to penicillin.
d) Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic and is also not related to penicillin.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. You have the right to refuse the recommended treatment plan.
As a nurse, it’s essential to respect the autonomy and decision-making capacity of your patients. Patients have the right to make informed choices about their own healthcare, including whether to accept or decline treatment recommendations. By acknowledging the patient’s right to refuse treatment, you empower them to be active participants in their care.
B.Option b is not the correct answer because it focuses on informing the provider without addressing the client's concerns or providing guidance.
C.Option c is not the correct answer because it emphasizes the medical consequences of not treating the cancer without acknowledging the client's personal beliefs or values.
D. In cases like yours, it is best to talk with your clergyperson before deciding this.
While option D acknowledges the importance of seeking emotional and spiritual support during difficult decisions, it does not directly address the patient’s right to refuse treatment. As a nurse, your primary responsibility is to respect the patient’s autonomy and provide accurate information about their treatment options. Encouraging open communication with a clergyperson or any other trusted individual can be beneficial, but it should not override the patient’s right to make their own decisions regarding their healthcare.
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