Patient Instructions: Safe Administration of Atropine Eye Drops

Follow these steps to safely administer atropine eye drops:

Step 1: Hand Hygiene

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
2. Ask the patient to wash their hands as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Eye Drops

1. Gently shake the bottle if instructed by your healthcare professional to ensure uniform distribution.

Step 3: Open the Eyelid

1. Ask the patient to look upward and slightly backward.
2. Gently pull down the lower eyelid with a clean finger to create a small pocket between the eyelid and eyeball.

Step 4: Apply the Eye Drop

1. Hold the bottle upside down directly above the pocket.
2. Squeeze gently to release one drop into the pocket. Avoid touching the eye or eyelid with the dropper tip to prevent contamination.

Step 5: Position and Close Eye

1. Ask the patient to close their eye gently and keep it closed for a few seconds.
2. Press gently on the inner corner of the eye (the puncta) for about 15 seconds. This prevents drainage through the tear duct and promotes absorption.

Step 6: Repeat for Other Eye (If Prescribed)

1. Repeat the same process for the other eye if directed by your healthcare provider.

Step 7: Wipe Excess

1. Carefully wipe any excess liquid from the eyelids and face with a clean tissue.

Step 8: Store Properly

1. Replace the cap tightly to avoid contamination.
2. Store in a cool, dark place as directed by your healthcare professional.

Always follow the specific dosage, frequency, and duration instructions provided by your healthcare provider.