Step 1 wash hands before applying any medication in the eye. Step 2 tip your head slightly backward.MoreStep 1 wash hands before applying any medication in the eye. Step 2 tip your head slightly backward. And look upward. Step 3 gently form a sec my pinching low and all pulling down lower lip.
Step 1: Read your doctor's instructions
The timing and dosage of your eye drops can make a big difference in your treatment. Whether you’re using drops for glaucoma, dry eye, an infection or an allergy, you must use the drops correctly to get the full benefit.
Step 2: Get prepared
Always wash your hands before handling your eye drops or touching your eyes.
Step 3: Place the drops into your eye
Tilt your head back slightly and look up. Some people find it helpful to focus on a specific point on the ceiling. It might help to tape a photo or clipping from a magazine to the ceiling, so that your eyes can focus on it.
Step 4: Close your eyes and don't blink!
Apply gentle pressure to your tear ducts, where the eyelid meets the nose. Hold the tear ducts closed for a minute or two—or as long as your ophthalmologist recommends—before opening your eyes. This will give the drop time to be absorbed by the eye, instead of draining into your nose.
Step 5: Wash your hands
It's important to wash your hands with soap and water after handling medication and touching your face.
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About This Article
This article was medically reviewed by Theodore Leng, MD. Dr. Leng is a board certified Ophthalmologist and Vitreoretinal Surgeon and an Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at Stanford University. He completed his MD and Vitreoretinal Surgical Fellowship at Stanford University in 2010. Dr.
Incorrect Use Wastes Eye Drops
Eye drops are used to treat many common conditions. They may be used for itchy or tired eyes as in allergies. They may be prescribed for viral or bacterial infections or other conditions such as glaucoma. When eye drops are not administered (used) properly the full benefit of the medication may not be realized.
The Proper Way to Use Drops
Almost everyone has used eye drops at some time—perhaps to treat an eye infection, to rewet contact lenses, to soothe dry or irritated eyes, or prior to or after eye surgery. There is a right way to use eye drops, although many people administer the drops incorrectly, resulting in spillage and waste.
Other Helpful Hints for the Proper Use of Eye Drops or Ointments
Check the label on your eye drop or ointment to see if refrigeration is necessary.
Preparing
Gather your supplies. These include the bottle of eye drops as well as a tissue or other cloth to wipe away excess drops.
Putting in the drops
Tilt your head back or lie down flat on your back. Pull your lower eyelid down with your finger to form a pouch or pocket where the eye drop will go.
Finishing up
If you need to put a second eye drop into the same eye, wait at least five to 10 minutes after putting in the first drop.
Step-by-step approach to putting in eye drops
1. Wash your hands with soap and water; then dry them with a clean towel.
What to do if you need to use more than one eye drop
Sometimes, you may be prescribed more than one type of medicated eye drop. The challenge: If you apply the drops too quickly in succession, they may drip out of the eye and not be absorbed properly, reducing the therapeutic effect.
Practice with artificial tears
If you aren't comfortable putting drops in your eyes, a little practice can help you master the task quickly.
17 hours ago
Jun 08, 2012 · If you are unsure about how to use eye drops properly, please do not hesitate to ask your doctor or another person to explain how best to use them. Depending on the type of eye drops you use, there may be certain things you have to keep in mind. You can find out if that is the case by talking to your doctor or pharmacist, or reading the package ...
12 hours ago
Mar 14, 2003 · Using the thumb and index finger, gently pinch and pull the lower eyelid downward to form a pocket. Place the eye drop or drops into the pouch formed in the lower lid, not directly into the eye. If an eye ointment is used, place a 1/4 inch line of ointment into the lower lid pouch.
7 hours ago
Jun 07, 2016 · Putting in the drops Tilt your head back or lie down flat on your back. Pull your lower eyelid down with your finger to form a pouch or pocket where the eye drop will go. Hold the bottle over your...
29 hours ago
Articles On Eye Treatments Before you use eye drops, wash your hands with soap and warm water. Dry them with a clean towel. To put them in your own eyes, lie down or use a mirror. It may help to ask someone to check that the drops get in your... Look up to the ceiling with both eyes. Tilt your head ...
28 hours ago
Step-by-step approach to putting in eye drops. 1. Wash your hands with soap and water; then dry them with a clean towel. 2. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them. The only exception is if you are using eye drops that are specifically formulated to re-moisten your contacts or if your doctor advised you to use the drops in this manner. 3.
5 hours ago
Sep 04, 2018 · Having difficulties in applying your eye drops? Here's a step-by-step guide. Remember to observe good hand hygiene!This video is brought to you by Singapore ...
