Personal care at home: helping safely as an informal caregiver
What you need to arrange for washing, dressing, and toilet assistance at home.
Read articleAdministering eye drops requires calm and a fixed approach. That helps make it as easy as possible for you and your loved one. Have everything ready before you begin, so you do not have to search for things.
What do you need to know before you start?
As an informal caregiver, you are allowed to do this procedure. That also applies if it is medical care. The main requirement is that you have enough knowledge and skill to do it properly and safely.
So do not do it just like that. First, have the nurse or doctor explain it to you and demonstrate it. Practise together if necessary. Keep asking questions until you feel confident.
Are you unsure, or is it becoming too much for you? Then you do not have to do it. Discuss this with the district nurse or your general practitioner. Together, you will look for a solution.
How do you learn to give eye drops properly?
First, have the steps explained to you one by one. Also ask whether it can be demonstrated. Practising together helps you feel more confident.
Keep asking questions if something is still unclear. Only take the next step when you know what you need to do. This reduces the chance that you will miss something.
What should you pay attention to regarding hygiene, posture, and order?
Do it calmly and according to the instructions you received. Make sure you know the exact order. That is important for doing it safely.
Are you unsure while administering them? Then stop for a moment. You do not have to continue if you notice that it is not working or is becoming too much.
What do you do with the leaflet and storage instructions?
Read the leaflet and storage instructions carefully. Follow those instructions exactly. They explain how to use and store the eye drops.
If there is something in the leaflet that you do not understand, discuss it with the nurse, doctor, district nurse, or general practitioner.
