How to Instill Eye Drops
Several eye conditions including glaucoma, dry eyes and even seasonal allergies require the daily use of eye drops. Those who have been using eye drops for some time are use to applying them, but people new to eye drop use will need practice to be capable of easily instilling eye drops.
What You’ll Need
- Soap and water
- Chair
- Eye drops
- Paper towel or tissue
- Hands free mirror
- Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent spreading any bacteria or germs into your eye.
- Sit in a comfortable chair. Some people find it easier to sit in front of a mirror when instilling eye drops, especially when first learning.
- Tilt your head back at a slight angle. Don’t tilt your head back too far or the eye drops will end up running out of your eye.
- Pull your lower eyelid down gently with your left index and middle finger. Roll your eyes up toward your top eyelid.
- Turn the eye drop bottle upside down and hold it over your eye. Be prepared because the drops may come out independently.
- Squeeze one drop of the eye drops into the inside corner of your eye, using your right hand.
- Close your eye and move it around to distribute the eye drop over the entire surface of your eye.
- Put your head back down and use a paper towel to dab any extra drops from your eyelashes or skin.
- Repeat with another drop or on the other eye if necessary or prescribed by your doctor.