A client is prescribed propranolol a systemically acting ophthalmic drop. What additional step must be included in the administration process?

A) Polyethylene Glycol: Polyethylene glycol is a medication typically used to treat constipation by promoting bowel movements. While it can be useful in managing constipation, it is not commonly prescribed after a myocardial infarction. In this situation, the focus is more on medications that promote heart health, reduce cardiac workload, and prevent complications related to the heart attack.

B) Bisacodyl: Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative used to relieve constipation. However, this medication is not typically prescribed immediately following a myocardial infarction. Stimulant laxatives can cause dehydration and excessive fluid shifts, which can be harmful to a client recovering from a heart attack. The focus would be on safer options for bowel management in this context.

C) Senna: Senna is also a stimulant laxative, used for relieving constipation. Similar to bisacodyl, it is not ideal for clients who have recently experienced a myocardial infarction due to its potential for causing dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which could negatively affect heart function. A gentler approach to bowel management is preferred for these clients.

D) Docusate Sodium: Docusate sodium is a stool softener commonly prescribed to prevent constipation, especially in clients who have recently had a myocardial infarction. After a heart attack, it's important to avoid straining during bowel movements, as this could increase pressure on the heart. Docusate sodium helps soften stools and promotes smoother bowel movements without stimulating the gastrointestinal system in a way that would elevate cardiac stress. It is the most appropriate choice for this client.

A) Touch the tip of the bottle to the lacrimal duct: Touching the tip of the bottle to the lacrimal duct is not a recommended practice when administering eye drops. This could introduce bacteria into the eye or nose, leading to potential infection. The goal is to administer the drops without contamination, and the tip of the bottle should never touch the eye or any part of the face.

B) Apply pressure to inner canthus for 2 minutes: Applying pressure to the inner canthus (the corner of the eye near the nose) for about 2 minutes after administering ophthalmic drops is a key step when using systemically acting eye medications like propranolol. This helps to prevent the systemic absorption of the medication through the nasolacrimal duct, reducing the risk of systemic side effects such as bradycardia or hypotension. This step ensures that the medication stays localized in the eye.

C) Have client lie down or tilt the back of their head: While lying down or tilting the head back may help the client instil the drops more comfortably, it is not a required step for the proper absorption or effectiveness of eye drops. The key to effective administration lies in positioning the drop in the correct part of the eye and minimizing systemic absorption, which is achieved by applying pressure to the inner canthus, not necessarily by tilting the head.

D) Have client pull down their lower eyelid: Pulling down the lower eyelid is a standard step in administering eye drops, as it creates a small pocket to hold the drop. However, it does not specifically address the concern for reducing systemic absorption of a medication like propranolol. The primary step for preventing systemic effects is applying pressure to the inner canthus after administration, making this less relevant for this specific question.