eye irrigation

1.	Assess condition of external  eye structure , taking care  not to exert  pressure directly on eye
2.	Assess level of client discomfort
3.	Check physician orders for irrigation solution
4.	Explain   procedure to client. explain that client will be allowed to close eye periodically and that no object touch eye
5.	Assist client to lying position on side of affected eye. Turn  client head towards affected eye
6.	Wash hands
7.	Don disposable gloves
8.	Place  water proof pad under face
9.	With cotton ball moisture in prescribed solution , gently clean lid margins and eye lashes . clean from inner to outer canthus
10.	Place curved emesis basin just below cheek one side of affected eye
11.	Fill  irrigating  syringe or eye dropper , gently retract lower conjunctiva sac  and upper eyelid by applying pressure to lower bony orbit and bony prominence beneath eyebrow , don’t apply pressure over eye
12.	Hold irrigating  syringe or eye dropper approximately 2.5 cm above inner canthus
13.	Ask client to look up and gently irrigate by directing solution in lower conjuctival  sac towards outer canthus .use enough force to gently remove secretions
14.	Allow client  to close eyes  periodically , particularly if burning  or excess blinking occurs / encourage cooperation
15.	Continue irrigation until all solution is used or secretions have been cleared
16.	Dry eyelids  and facial areas with sterile cotton ball , client may return to normal position and activity
17.	Remove equipment and wash hands
18.	Inspect condition of external eye structure and appearance of drainage. ask client about discomfort
19.	Record any verbal statements like head ache , burning, smarting , pain , visual disturbance
20.	Record Reponses to irrigation (burning , itching , pain )note volume and type of solution used , character of drainage , appearance of conjunctiva