A nurse is caring for a 3-year-old child who has acute bacterial conjunctivitis of the right eye and has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A Reason: Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward. When administering ophthalmic ointment to a child, it's essential to apply the medication gently and accurately. To prevent the spread of infection and ensure proper absorption, the nurse should instruct the guardian to wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus (the inner corner of the eye) outward. This technique helps to prevent contamination of the medication tube and minimizes the risk of introducing bacteria into the eye. Choice B Reason: Placing an occlusive dressing on the affected eye is not necessary for treating acute bacterial conjunctivitis. Choice C Reason: Instructing the guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is incorrect because the child has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment. Choice D Reason: Massaging the eyelid is not necessary and can be uncomfortable for the child. It's important to apply the medication gently and not to massage the eyelid.