A patient is prescribed gentamicin ophthalmic drops for the treatment of conjunctivitis. Which of the following statements indicates to the nurse that the patient requires additional instruction?

Explanation

All ophthalmic medications can cause local irritation including itching, burning, and inflammation. These symptoms are usually transient and not serious.

• Incorrect:  "I should avoid sharing the drops with my spouse."

• Incorrect:  "I should never touch the tip of the applicator to my eye."

• Incorrect:  "I should wash my hands before and after administration."

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