Module 6

It refers to the administration of liquid- or paste-type medications usually in drops, ointments, or sprays depending on the site of administration.

These medications are usually in drops/ointment form to soothe irritation, dilate or constrict pupils, and provide lubrication for dry eye syndrome.

What is the importance of normal saline solution in administering eye medications?

What wiping motion should be used when administering eye ointments and clearing the eyes from exudates?

Modified True or False: It is important that eye drops are placed directly onto the eye for proper absorption.

(If the answer is FALSE, place the correct answer.)

Where should you put pressure upon administering eye drops? How many minutes?

What is the advised waiting time when more than one eye drop is ordered for the same eye?

Upon administering eye ointments to a patient, they complained of not seeing clearly. What is the appropriate response of the nurse?

A. Report it immediately to the doctor.

B. Irrigate the eye to wash off the ointment and apply eye drops instead.

C. Tell the patient that it is a normal effect and will go away in a few minutes.

It refers to solutions containing medications for the treatment of localized infection/inflammation of the ears.

Why are otic medications only available in drops?

For children below 3 years old, the earlobe should be pulled in what direction?

For children above 3 years old, the earlobe should be pulled in what direction?

These medications are used to treat temporary disorders affecting the nasal mucous membrane. (E.g. inflammation, congestion)

Modified True or False: The head should be hyperextended so the nose is pointed upward and prevents flow discontinuity.

(If the answer is FALSE, place the correct answer.)

For newborns, infants, and young children, nurses can make use of the __ for immobilization and to prevent aspiration when giving nasal medications.

Modified True or False: When applied as a spray, the small droplets of solution containing nasal medication coat the membrane and are rapidly absorbed.

(If the answer is FALSE, place the correct answer.)

It refers to the administration of medications by means of sprays (nebulae) or aerosols and is commonly prescribed for those with asthma.

In administering medications via inhalation, why should the patient sit up or be in a semi-fowler’s position?

In administering medications via inhalation, why is the patient advised to exhale slowly through pursed lips?

A student nurse was assigned to administer medications via a nebulizer and was asked if the mouthpiece should completely seal the mouth. What is the appropriate response?

A. I should not completely seal the mouth for proper ventilation.

B. I should completely seal the mouth to ensure that the medication reaches the patient’s respiratory tract.

It refers to the administration of medication through manual placement inside the external orifices of the body, such as the vagina, rectum, and urethra.

Before administering vaginal medications, a nurse must take note of the acronym CUVA. What does this stand for?

In administering vaginal medications, the patient must be placed in a __ and elevate the hips with the pillow.

After administering vaginal medications, patients should remain in __ position with hips elevated __ minutes to allow melting and spreading of the medication.

These are the most used for rectal medication.

When administering rectal medications, the patient must assume what position/s?

What is the rationale behind asking the patient to breathe in and out through the mouth when inserting rectal suppositories?

Upon administering the rectal suppository, the patient asked if he/she could stand up to get water. What is the appropriate response of the nurse?

A. I’ll get some for you instead since we have to wait at least 20 minutes for the medication to be absorbed.

B. You can stand up but make sure not to take too long as the medication can leak.

C. Rectal suppositories have a zero possibility of sliding out upon insertion, so you can immediately stand up to get water.

This administration technique is used for washing a cavity in order to clean and instill medications.

Select all that apply. Which of the following should be verified before irrigating a certain area of the body?

1. Type of irrigation ordered

2. Temperature of solution

3. Amount and concentration of solution

4. Type of solution ordered

a. 1, 3, 4

b. 1 only

C. 1, 2, 3, 4

A student nurse was assigned to irrigate the eye of her patient. She needs further teaching if she states which of the following?

A. I will fill the syringe with only 30-60 mL of fluid.

B. I will make sure to keep the tip away from the eye to lessen the risk of touching the conjunctival sac.

C. I will make sure to hold the patient’s eye open with my thumb and forefinger.