When administering eye drops, what should you instruct the resident to do?

When administering eye drops, instructing the resident to close their eyes for a few minutes after the application is important for several reasons. Closing the eyes helps to retain the drops in the conjunctival sac where they can be absorbed effectively. This action increases the medication's contact time with the eye surface, thus enhancing its therapeutic effect. Additionally, it minimizes the likelihood of the drops being washed away by tears or blink reflexes that naturally occur after instillation.

Also, keeping eyes gently closed can help prevent the possibility of eliciting discomfort or irritation, as rubbing or excessive movement could lead to the drops being spread unevenly or cause increased tearing. This simple yet effective instruction promotes optimal absorption and ensures that the resident receives the full benefits of the medication.