How to Put in Eye Drops Without Blinking

Eye drops are sometimes necessary for optimal eye health, although applying eye drops can appear difficult, if not frightening, to some. Applying eye drops improperly can lead to eye infections and possible injury, so learning proper application protocol is vital. The following procedure is from the National Institutes of Health.

Things You'll Need

• Eye drops
• Tissue

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash and dry your hands before applying eye drops.

• 2

  Check the expiration date on the eye drop bottle. Shake contents in bottle to mix any ingredients that may have settled. Remove the bottle's cap and place it on its side on top of a clean tissue. Avoid contaminating the tip of the eye drop bottle with your fingers.

• 3

  Tilt your head back a little bit, or lie on the floor. Keep both eyes open, finding a place above you to focus your gaze as you administer the drops.

• 4

  Place your finger below your eyelid and gently pull down on the lower lid to form a nice pocket for the eye drop to go.

• 5

  Quickly flip the bottle upside down. Hold it about an inch away from your eye and gently squeeze the bottle, making sure that the drop falls in the pocket you have provided with your lid. You can brace the hand holding the eye drops by placing your thumb on your forehead above the eye as you squeeze.

• 6

  Slowly close your eyes, and avoid squeezing them tightly together. Use a clean tissue to wipe up any excess that may have escaped. Allow the drops to settle into your eyes before administering any more.