Chapter Summary

This chapter introduced various ophthalmic medications used for multiple purposes. Drugs were discussed based on their classification and primary mechanism of action. The eye itself can have ocular pathology, such as infection. Because the eye can be a portal of infection, it is essential that the nurse administer ocular medications via aseptic technique. In addition, the eye can also reflect illness, injury, and autoimmune systemic diseases. Ocular medications are available in several forms, including drops, solutions, gels, and ointments. Medications covered in this chapter included ocular anti-inflammatories, anti-infectives (antibacterials, antivirals, antifungals), anesthetics, lubricants, and drugs used to treat or manage glaucoma. The two main types of glaucoma were discussed, including the more common presentation of POAG as well as closed-angle glaucoma, which has a much quicker onset and can present as blindness.