To properly use eye solution (eye drops), follow these steps for safe and effective application:
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Wash Your Hands: Always begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water to prevent contamination.
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Prepare the Bottle: If the eye drop solution is a suspension, gently shake the bottle. This ensures the medication is evenly distributed.
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Position Yourself: Tilt your head back slightly and look up at the ceiling. You can also lie down if that's easier.
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Create a Pocket: Use one hand to gently pull down your lower eyelid away from your eye. This creates a small "pocket" or pouch. Avoid touching your eye or eyelashes with your fingers.
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Administer the Drops: With the other hand, hold the eye drop bottle upside down, positioning the tip just above the pocket you've created. Be careful not to touch your eye or eyelid with the tip of the bottle. Squeeze the bottle gently to release the prescribed number of drops into the pocket. If you're unsure, one drop is typically sufficient.
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Close Your Eye: Gently close your eye for 2-3 minutes. Avoid squeezing your eye shut or blinking forcefully, as this can push the medication out.
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Apply Gentle Pressure: Use a clean tissue to gently press on the inner corner of your eye (near your nose) for 1-2 minutes. This helps to prevent the medication from draining into your tear duct and being absorbed systemically.
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Wipe Away Excess: Wipe away any excess solution that may have dripped onto your face with a clean tissue.
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Replace the Cap: Replace the cap on the eye drop bottle immediately after use.
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Wait Between Drops: If you are using multiple eye medications, wait 5-10 minutes between applying different types of eye drops to prevent them from washing each other out. Administer eye ointments last.
Important Considerations:
- Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using most eye drops. Check the product label or your doctor's instructions to see when you can reinsert them. Some eye drops are safe to use with contacts.
- Expiration Date: Always check the expiration date of the eye drops before using them. Discard expired medication.
- Storage: Store eye drops as directed on the packaging, usually in a cool, dark place.
- Consult Your Doctor: If you experience any irritation, pain, or vision changes after using eye drops, consult your doctor.
- Single-Use Vials: If using single-use vials, discard the vial after use, even if there is solution remaining. They are preservative-free and designed for one-time use only.
