A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a parent of a toddler about viral conjunctivitis. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Maintaining continuous cool eye compresses is incorrect. While cool compresses can help relieve discomfort, continuous application is unnecessary. Intermittent warm or cool compresses are more appropriate. B. Applying antibiotic eye ointment in the morning is incorrect because viral conjunctivitis is caused by a virus, not bacteria, so antibiotics are not effective in treating it. C. Cleansing the eye by wiping downward outward from the inner canthus is correct. This technique helps prevent the spread of infection and keeps the eye clean by moving debris and discharge away from the tear ducts. D. Using a corticosteroid ointment until the infection subsides is incorrect because corticosteroids are generally not recommended for viral conjunctivitis. They may suppress the immune response and prolong the infection.