10 steps for self administering eye drops
10 steps for self administering eye drops
It can be difficult to self administer eye drops. Follow these ten steps to make the process more simple:
- Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before applying eye drops, as bacteria found on hands could lead to further infection.
- Remove the cap from the eyedrops. Sit down, tilt your head backwards and look upwards.
- Gently pull your lower eyelid down.
- Squeeze the eyedrops into the space between your lower eyelid and eyeball.
- Try not to touch your eye, eyelid or eyelashes with the tip of the applicator as this could lead to contamination. Instead, apply the drops from 1-2cm above the eye.
- Only apply the amount prescribed or stated in the product leaflet or directed by your pharmacist. Applying more will not improve the efficacy of the product.
- Once the eye drops have been applied, close the eye and try not to blink as this may expel the drops from your eye. Keep your eye closed for a minute or two.
- With your eye closed gently wipe any excess eyedrops from around your eye with a clean tissue.
- If you still struggle to apply eyedrops you may wish to use an eye drop applicator. These help to prevent the ‘blink reflex’ and can make the eye drop application process easier.
- If you have any concerns about applying eye drops, speak to your pharmacist.