Eye anesthetics: Nursing Pharmacology

Ophthalmic or eye anesthetics are medications used to induce a temporary loss of corneal sensation, including pain, and can be used for various reasons in ophthalmology, such as during comprehensive eye exams, and during brief ophthalmic procedures, like removal of foreign objects or corneal sutures, as well as surgery for cataracts or glaucoma.

Now, commonly used eye anesthetics include proparacaine hydrochloride and tetracaine hydrochloride.

These medications are applied topically in the form of eye drops, and the way they work is by reversibly blocking sodium channels on the sensory neurons of the cornea. As a result, eye anesthetics prevent the transmission of corneal sensation.

Unfortunately, eye anesthetics can result in side effects, such as loss of the corneal blink reflex, and blurred vision.

In addition, clients may experience photophobia, dry, red eyes, and a stinging or burning sensation. There are no known contraindications for the use of eye anesthetics.

Alright, when preparing to assist with administering an eye anesthetic, start by assembling the sterile local anesthetic field.

Ensure that all medications are labeled with name, strength, amount, and expiration date, and that ocular solutions are separated from those not used intraocularly. Lastly, be sure to verify which eye has been prescribed the eye anesthetic.

Next, let your client know that the eye anesthetic will help decrease their pain and discomfort during the procedure.