What is the correct procedure for administering eye drops?

The correct procedure for administering eye drops involves gently pulling down the lower eyelid and holding the dropper above the eye, allowing the drops to fall into the space created between the eyelid and the eye. This method ensures that the medication enters the conjunctival sac, where it can be absorbed effectively.

When using this technique, it is crucial to avoid touching the dropper to the eye or eyelid, as this could cause contamination of the dropper or introduce bacteria into the eye, potentially leading to infection or irritation. Also, holding the dropper above the eye helps ensure that the drops are delivered accurately and precisely, reducing the chance of mistakenly missing the eye altogether.

In addition, applying pressure to the outer corner of the eye after administering the drops may be a recommended practice to help prevent the medication from draining away and to enhance absorption, but it is a separate step that follows the initial administration of the drops. The focus here is on the proper positioning and technique for delivering the medication accurately to the eye.