What is the expected result of closing the eyes after administering eye drops?

What is the expected result of closing the eyes after administering eye drops?

• A. The medication distributes over the conjunctiva and eyeball
• B. The medication remains on the eyelid
• C. The medication is absorbed via the lacrimal duct immediately
• D. The medication is cleared by blinking immediately

Answer: (C)

After giving eye drops, having the patient close their eyes helps keep the medication in contact with the ocular surface longer and directs it into the eye’s drainage pathway. When the eyes are shut, tears and the drop flow toward the inner corner of the eye and enter the lacrimal puncta, moving through the nasolacrimal duct to the nasal mucosa. This route allows some of the medication to be absorbed quickly via the nasal tissues, making absorption through the lacrimal duct the expected immediate process. If the eyes are opened or blinking right away, the drop is more likely to be washed away or not remain in contact long enough for as much absorption.

After giving eye drops, having the patient close their eyes helps keep the medication in contact with the ocular surface longer and directs it into the eye’s drainage pathway. When the eyes are shut, tears and the drop flow toward the inner corner of the eye and enter the lacrimal puncta, moving through the nasolacrimal duct to the nasal mucosa. This route allows some of the medication to be absorbed quickly via the nasal tissues, making absorption through the lacrimal duct the expected immediate process. If the eyes are opened or blinking right away, the drop is more likely to be washed away or not remain in contact long enough for as much absorption.