How should eye drops be administered to avoid contamination?

Administering eye drops correctly is essential to prevent contamination and ensure the medication's efficacy. Dropping the exact number of drops into the pocket of the eye minimizes the risk of touching any surfaces that could harbor bacteria, such as the eyelids, eyelashes, or surrounding skin. By placing the drops directly into the conjunctival sac (the pocket formed by the lower eyelid), the medication can be properly absorbed while maintaining sterility.

It’s important to avoid touching the dropper tip against any part of the eye, as this can introduce contaminants into the medication. Proper technique, including ensuring that only the prescribed number of drops is used in the pocket of the eye, enhances the administration's effectiveness and reduces the risk of irritation or infection.