A nurse is preparing to administer eye drops to a child.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Apply pressure to the lacrimal punctum after administering the drops.
Position the child side-lying on the bed before administering the drops.
Wipe from the outer to the inner canthus after administering the drops.
Flush the eye with normal saline solution before administering the drops.
The Correct Answer is A
a. Apply pressure to the lacrimal punctum after administering the drops.
When administering eye drops to a child, the nurse should apply gentle pressure to the lacrimal punctum (the small opening in the inner corner of the eye) after administering the drops. This can help prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct and being absorbed into the bloodstream, which can reduce systemic side effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Posterior fontanel closed is incorrect, it is normal for the posterior fontanel to close earlier than the anterior fontanel, usually by 2 to 3 months of age.
Choice B Reason:
Anterior fontanel closed is correct. The anterior fontanel is the soft spot on the top of a baby's head, and it typically closes between 12 to 18 months of age. If the anterior fontanel is closed in a 4-month-old infant, it is considered an early closure, which can be a cause for concern. Early closure of the anterior fontanel can be associated with various underlying medical conditions, such as craniosynostosis (premature fusion of the skull bones) or dehydration.
Choice C Reason:
Plays with toes is incorrect. At 4 months of age, infants are typically developing their motor skills, and playing with their toes is a sign of normal development.
Choice D Reason:
Moves objects to mouth is incorrect. At this age, infants often explore their environment by bringing objects to their mouths as part of their sensory exploration and development.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward. When administering ophthalmic ointment to a child, it's essential to apply the medication gently and accurately. To prevent the spread of infection and ensure proper absorption, the nurse should instruct the guardian to wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus (the inner corner of the eye) outward. This technique helps to prevent contamination of the medication tube and minimizes the risk of introducing bacteria into the eye.
Choice B Reason:
Placing an occlusive dressing on the affected eye is not necessary for treating acute bacterial conjunctivitis.
Choice C Reason:
Instructing the guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is incorrect because the child has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment.
Choice D Reason:
Massaging the eyelid is not necessary and can be uncomfortable for the child. It's important to apply the medication gently and not to massage the eyelid.
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