When administering ophthalmic medications, what should be avoided?

In the context of administering ophthalmic medications, proper hygiene is crucial. Using hand sanitizers before the procedure helps prevent the introduction of contaminants into the eye. Therefore, avoiding the use of hand sanitizers is not advisable, as it compromises hygiene and could increase the risk of infections.

Applying pressure to the inner corner of the eye, waiting a minute between drops, and lowering the eyelid to form a pouch are all recommended practices. Applying pressure can help prevent the medication from draining away too quickly, ensuring it stays in the eye longer for effectiveness. Waiting between drops allows each medication sufficient time to be absorbed before another is introduced, and forming a pouch by lowering the eyelid helps in accurately depositing the medication in the correct area. Each of these practices contributes to the proper administration of ophthalmic medications, reinforcing the importance of hygiene measures such as the use of hand sanitizers.