A nurse is caring for a 3-year-old child who has acute bacterial conjunctivitis of the right eye and has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Gently massage the eyelid to facilitate absorption of the medication.
Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward.
Place an occlusive dressing on the affected eye to prevent the spread of infection.
Instruct guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment every morning for 14 days.
The Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward
Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis.
Wiping any excess medication from the inner canthus outward, is important to prevent the accumulation of excessive ointment, which can cause discomfort and affect vision. Using a clean, sterile cotton ball or tissue, the nurse should gently wipe any excess ointment from the inner corner of the eye (inner canthus) and then move outward to remove the excess ointment.
Gently massaging the eyelid to facilitate absorption of the medication in (option A) is not recommended. It can potentially cause discomfort or further irritation to the affected eye, especially in a young child. The ointment will naturally spread across the eye as the child blinks.
Placing an occlusive dressing on the affected eye in (option C) is not necessary for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. It may impede proper air circulation and potentially worsen the infection. It is important to promote hygiene and prevent the spread of infection by encouraging proper handwashing and avoiding touching or rubbing the affected eye.
Instructing the guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment every morning for 14 days in (option D) is not appropriate in this case. Erythromycin is an alternative antibiotic commonly used for conjunctivitis, but since the child has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment, the appropriate course of treatment would be to follow the prescribed medication as directed by the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Using the overbed trapeze helps the client strengthen their upper body and improve mobility by allowing them to independently move and reposition themselves in bed. This promotes independence in activities of daily living and reduces reliance on nursing assistance.
Cautioning the client to avoid a prone position while in bed is important for preventing pressure ulcers and maintaining proper positioning, but it does not specifically promote independence and mobility.
Keeping a loose, absorbent dressing over the surgical site is important for wound care and infection prevention, but it does not directly promote mobility or independence. Maintaining abduction of the client's residual limb with a pillow is important to prevent contractures, but it does not directly promote mobility or independence.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
By using short, simple sentences, the nurse can effectively communicate with the client who is exhibiting signs of agitation and anxiety. This communication style can help reduce stress and confusion for the client and promote understanding.
Asking the client if they would like to watch television: While providing options for activities can be beneficial, it is important to address the client's current state of agitation and anxiety before suggesting any specific activities.
Allowing the client to have 1 hour of time alone in their room: While some clients may prefer solitude, in this case, the client's pacing and hand-wringing indicate signs of distress and may require therapeutic interventions rather than isolation.
Moving the client to a table where other clients are playing cards: This option may not address the client's current state of anxiety and pacing. Placing the client in a social setting with other clients might increase their distress and agitation.
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