How to Administer Eye Drops to a Newborn: 6 Safe Steps Without Tears or Fuss

Young children often react by tightly closing their eyes, turning their heads, or crying loudly whenever eye drops are administered to them, leaving many parents flustered and taking a long time. In fact, conjunctivitis (pink eye) is one of the most common eye conditions in children, with millions of cases reported worldwide each year, especially prone to outbreaks in schools and nurseries. If administering eye drops to a child is not done correctly, the medication may not be as effective as desired, prolonging treatment time and making the child increasingly fearful each time the medication is used.

In this article, Tiptory will guide you on how to administer eye drops to a child simply, gently, and effectively. You will learn how to help children cooperate more, reduce crying, and ensure the medication is properly administered to safely treat eye conditions.

Part 1: Preparation before administering eye drops to a child

Step 1: Prepare before administering eye drops to a child

Prepare all necessary tools before administering eye drops to a child

• Before you begin administering eye drops to your child, have all necessary items ready to ensure the process is quick and minimizes discomfort for the child.
• Performing the procedure quickly and decisively will ensure that your child's eye drops are administered at the right time, while also reducing crying, struggling, or refusal to cooperate.
• Keep all items within reach so you don't have to look away from your child halfway through.

Items to have ready

• Prepare eye drops as prescribed by the doctor or according to the instructions on the packaging.
• Have clean tissues or cotton pads ready to wipe away any excess medication or tears after administration.
• Prepare a soft, clean towel to wipe the face if needed, helping to keep the eye area clean and provide comfort for the child.
• If the child is very young or difficult to keep still, you can prepare an additional pillow or rolled towel to support their head, helping to stabilize it and ensure more precise administration of eye drops to the child.

Arrange the space before starting

• Choose a place with sufficient light to easily observe the child's eyes.
• Arrange the tools in the order of use for seamless operation, avoiding interruptions during the child's eye drop administration.
• Double-check the medication, including the correct name, expiration date, and usage instructions, before administering eye drops to the child. This helps minimize confusion and ensures treatment effectiveness.

Step 2: Reduce distractions when administering eye drops

Create a quiet environment before administering eye drops to your child

• Young children are easily attracted by sounds, lights, or surrounding activities. Therefore, before administering eye drops to your child, choose a quiet space so they can focus and cooperate better.
• With fewer distractions, the child will keep their head and eyes more stable, allowing their eye drops to be administered accurately and reducing the risk of needing multiple attempts.

Eliminate distracting factors

• Turn off TVs, tablets, or phones playing videos, music, or games.
• Limit noise from people nearby or activities occurring near the eye drop area.
• If there are many people in the room, only keep necessary helpers present to avoid distracting or worrying the child.

Help the child look in the right direction

• After creating a quiet space, gently instruct the child to look up or at a fixed point as you request.
• For older children, you can ask them to focus on a simple object on the ceiling or a spot on the wall for a few seconds when administering eye drops to them.
• Keep the atmosphere gentle and avoid rushing, as the caregiver's calmness often helps the child feel secure and cooperate better throughout the eye drop administration process.

Step 3: Explain before administering eye drops

Tell your child why they need eye drops

• If the child is old enough to understand and communicate, explain in short, easy-to-understand sentences about administering eye drops to them.
• Let the child know that this is eye drops to help their eyes get better, reduce pain, redness, or treat the current condition. When they understand the purpose of the medication, children usually cooperate more and are less fearful.

Prepare them for possible sensations

• Tell your child beforehand that the drops might feel a bit cool or sting slightly for the first few seconds after administration. This is a common sensation and will quickly disappear.
• Reassure the child that this feeling is only temporary and their eyes will feel more comfortable as the medication takes effect.

Remind the child not to rub their eyes after applying the drops

• After administering eye drops to the child, explain that their vision might be blurry for a while because the medication is still on the eye's surface.
• Remind the child not to rub their eyes with their hands, as this can wash away the medication, increase the risk of introducing bacteria into the eyes, or cause more irritation.
• If the child feels uncomfortable, instruct them to blink gently instead of touching their eyes.

Maintain a gentle tone and create a sense of security

• Use a calm, friendly voice and avoid words that might worry the child, such as "pain," "bear with it," or "don't cry."
• Always be honest with your child about the sensations they might experience, while emphasizing that administering eye drops to a child is only temporary and will help their eyes recover quickly. This helps the child build trust and cooperate better in subsequent medication uses.

Step 4: Familiarize the child with eye drops

Help your child understand that eye drops are safe

• If your child is still anxious or scared, let them familiarize themselves with their eye drops before you begin.
• A simple way is to place a drop of medication on the back of their hand so they can feel that it doesn't cause pain or danger.
• This helps reduce the child's tension and minimize their resistance when administering eye drops to them.

Explain with words and actions

• When applying a drop of medicine on the child's hand, gently say that you will apply a similar drop to their eye to help it heal faster.
• Point to your own eye or the child's eye when explaining so they can easily visualize what is about to happen.
• Use short, positive sentences to help the child feel secure instead of scared.

Do not force if the child is too stressed

• If the child is still scared, take a few more minutes to talk and reassure them before continuing.
• Avoid scolding or holding the child too tightly, as this can make them develop a fear of eye drops in subsequent attempts.
• When the child feels respected and mentally prepared, the process of administering eye drops to the child usually goes more smoothly.

Notes when applying this method

• Only apply drops to the back of the hand if the medication is indicated for external eye use and there are no specific instructions from the doctor or manufacturer regarding avoiding skin contact.
• Always keep the tip of the bottle clean, avoiding contact with skin, hands, or any surface to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure that the child's eye drops remain sterile throughout use.

Step 5: Demonstrate how to administer eye drops

Let your child observe how to apply eye drops first

• If your child is still anxious, you can demonstrate how to administer eye drops to help them understand that the procedure is safe and very quick.
• Tilt your head back, apply a drop of lubricating eye drops into your own eye, then blink gently.
• When they see an adult calm and painless, children often feel more secure and ready to cooperate when administering eye drops to them.

Maintain a calm demeanor when demonstrating

• Perform each movement slowly, naturally, and avoid showing any anxiety.
• You can explain simply while doing it that only one drop is needed and it will help their eyes get better.
• Children often observe their parents' emotions. Therefore, your calmness can significantly reduce your child's stress.

Do not use the child's medication for demonstration

• Do not use the child's eye drops to apply to an adult's eyes, even if it's just for illustration.
• Sharing a bottle of medication can increase the risk of contaminating the bottle tip or transmitting bacteria, affecting the child's treatment effectiveness.

Use lubricating eye drops if demonstration is needed

• If you want to demonstrate, use lubricating eye drops or artificial tears purchased at the pharmacy, prioritizing those used to relieve dry eye symptoms.
• Always use each type of medication for its intended purpose and read the instructions carefully before use.
• Only do this when absolutely necessary. For many children, simply explaining gently and maintaining a confident attitude is enough to help the administration of eye drops to the child proceed more smoothly.

Step 6: Encourage child's cooperation

Motivate your child to cooperate when administering eye drops

• Before administering eye drops to your child, let them know that if they cooperate well, they will receive a small reward after completion.
• Rewards help children have a more positive mindset, reduce fear, and gradually develop a habit of cooperation whenever eye drops need to be administered.

Choose appropriate rewards

• You can reward your child with a sticker, a short storybook, extra playtime, or a small toy they love.
• If you want to reward with food, only choose a small amount that is appropriate for the child's age and diet.
• The important thing is that the reward serves as encouragement, not necessarily a large or highly valuable item.

Set simple, age-appropriate expectations

• Gently tell your child that just sitting still for a few seconds and following instructions means they've done a great job.
• Instead of telling your child "don't cry," encourage them with positive phrases like "You just need to try to sit still for a moment" or "You're doing great." This helps children feel less pressured and more willing to cooperate.

Praise immediately after completion

• After giving your baby eyedrops, offer specific praise like "You held still so well" or "You cooperated very well today."
• Combining praise with small rewards will help children remember the positive experience and be less anxious during subsequent eyedrop administrations.
• Prioritize encouragement and recognition over material rewards. Over time, this will help children build self-confidence and cooperate naturally when eye care is needed.

Step 7: Warm the medication before administering

Bring eyedrops to room temperature

• If baby eyedrops are stored in the refrigerator as directed, take them out a few minutes before use to allow them to reach room temperature.
• Medication that is too cold can startle the baby, cause discomfort, or trigger a strong blinking reflex, making administering eyedrops to the baby more difficult.

Warm the medication correctly

• You can hold the bottle in the palm of your hand and gently roll it back and forth between your hands for a few minutes to warm the medication naturally.
• Only warm to near room temperature; there's no need to heat it further.

Avoid heating medication with high temperatures

• Do not soak the bottle in hot water, use a hairdryer, or microwave it, as high temperatures can affect the quality and effectiveness of the medication.
• Always follow the manufacturer's storage instructions or your doctor's recommendations to ensure the medication remains safe for use.

Check medication before administering

• Before administering eyedrops to your baby, check the expiration date, color, and condition of the solution. Do not use if the medication has changed color, contains sediment, or the bottle is damaged.
• Only open the cap just before use and close it tightly immediately after administering eyedrops to keep the dropper tip clean, reduce the risk of contamination, and maintain therapeutic effectiveness.

Step 8: Wash hands before administering eyedrops

Wash hands thoroughly before and after administering eyedrops to your baby

• Before administering eyedrops to your baby, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria or viruses into the child's eyes.
• After administering the medication, wash your hands again to prevent the spread of germs to others or surrounding surfaces.
• This step is especially important if the baby has conjunctivitis (pink eye) or other eye infections, as these can be spread through contact.

Perform correctly to ensure hygiene

• Wet your hands with clean water, then use soap and thoroughly scrub all parts of your hands, between fingers, fingertips, and under nails.
• Rinse thoroughly under running water and then dry completely with a clean towel or single-use paper towel before handling baby eyedrops.
• Clean and dry hands reduce the risk of contaminating the dropper tip during use.

Gloves can be used when necessary

• If you want to enhance hygiene or are caring for a child with a contagious eye condition, you can wear single-use gloves when administering eyedrops to your baby.
• However, gloves do not replace handwashing. Wash your hands thoroughly before wearing gloves and remove them correctly after completion.

Keep the dropper tip sterile

• Throughout the process of administering eyedrops to a child, avoid letting the dropper tip touch your hands, eyelashes, eyelids, or any surface.
• After use, close the cap tightly immediately to prevent contamination and ensure the quality of the medication for subsequent uses.
• Consider handwashing an indispensable step every time you administer eyedrops to your baby, as this is a simple yet very effective way to protect the child's eyes and reduce the risk of infection in the family.

Step 9: Clean the eyes before administering eyedrops

Clean the eye area before administering medication

• If the baby's eyes have a lot of discharge, secretions, or dry crusts around the eyelids, clean them before administering eyedrops to the baby.
• Cleaning the eye area helps the baby's eyedrops to better contact the eye surface, while reducing the risk of introducing bacteria or dirt into the eyes during administration.

How to clean eyes correctly

• Dampen a clean cotton ball or soft, clean cloth with clean water or sterile saline solution if recommended by a doctor.
• Gently wipe from the inner corner of the eye (near the nose bridge) outwards towards the outer corner of the eye with a single, decisive stroke.
• If wiping again is necessary, use a clean side of the cloth or a new cotton pad to avoid reintroducing dirt into the eye.

Do not use the same tools for both eyes

• If both eyes need cleaning, use a separate cotton ball or cloth for each eye.
• This is especially important when the baby has conjunctivitis (pink eye) or a suspected infection, as it helps prevent the spread of germs from one eye to the other.

Maintain hygiene after completion

• After cleaning the eyes, discard the cotton ball or wash the cloth according to appropriate hygiene guidelines.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before continuing to administer eyedrops to your baby to reduce the risk of infection.
• Always wipe the eyes gently, avoiding harsh rubbing, as the skin around a child's eyes is very thin and sensitive, easily irritated or damaged.

Part 2: How to safely administer eyedrops to newborns

Step 1: Swaddle the baby to keep them still

Lightly swaddle to limit the baby's movements

• For newborns or very young babies, you can swaddle them in a soft blanket or cloth before administering eyedrops.
• This helps keep the baby's arms close to their body, limiting them from flailing their arms or rubbing their eyes immediately after the drops are administered.

Perform correctly to keep the baby comfortable

• Lay the baby on a flat, firm surface and swaddle them just enough to secure their arms.
• Do not swaddle too tightly as this can make the baby uncomfortable or restrict natural movements.
• Ensure the baby's head and neck are safely supported throughout the entire process of administering eyedrops.

Keep the baby calm while administering eyedrops

• While performing the procedure, talk or sing softly to help the baby feel secure.
• If there is assistance, one person can hold and reassure the baby, while the other person administers eyedrops to the child, helping the procedure to be quicker and more accurate.

Prioritize the child's safety

• If the baby resists too strongly or becomes very uncomfortable, pause for a few minutes to reassure them before continuing.
• Only swaddle as a temporary aid to help administer eyedrops safely and effectively; do not use force to make the child lie still or hold them too tightly. The goal is to help the baby limit movement for a short period while still feeling comfortable and protected.

Step 2: Position the baby correctly

Lay the baby on their back before administering eyedrops

• Before administering eyedrops to your baby, lay them on their back to keep their head and eyes stable.
• This position allows you to observe the child's eyes more easily, perform the procedure more accurately, and reduce the risk of the medication missing the eye.

Place the baby on your lap for easier operation

• A convenient way is to lay the baby on your lap, with their head near your stomach or chest, and their body extending along your legs.
• This position allows you to easily hold the baby's head with one hand and administer eyedrops to the baby with the other hand.

Keep the baby's head stable but gently

• Support the baby's head and neck with your hand or forearm to prevent them from suddenly turning their head.
• Do not tilt the head back too much or hold it too tightly, as this can make the baby uncomfortable and react more.

Ensure safety throughout the process

• Perform eyedrop administration on the child in a flat, well-lit area and avoid placing the baby near the edge of a bed, chair, or any position where there is a risk of falling.
• If the baby moves a lot, you can ask another person to gently help hold them so that eyedrop administration can be done more quickly and safely.
• Complete the procedure quickly but without rushing. The correct position from the start will help the baby's eyedrops be used effectively and reduce stress for both the caregiver and the child.

Step 3: Gently pull down the lower eyelid

Gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a space for eyedrop administration

• Once the baby is still, use a clean finger to place on the skin just below the eye and gently pull down the lower eyelid.
• Pull just enough to create a small pocket between the eyelid and the eyeball. This is the appropriate position to administer eyedrops to the baby.
• Avoid pulling too hard or opening the eye too wide as this can make the baby uncomfortable and resist more.

Perform gently to protect the baby's eyes

• Do not apply direct pressure to the eyeball when pulling down the eyelid.
• Keep your hand very steady to limit the baby's head movement while administering eyedrops to the baby.
• Always avoid letting the dropper tip touch the eyelid, eyelashes, or eye surface to reduce the risk of infection and eye injury.

Ask for assistance if needed

• If the baby cries, constantly turns their head, or moves a lot, ask another adult for help.
• One person can gently hold and reassure the baby, while the other person administers eyedrops to the child. This coordinated approach helps the procedure be quicker and safer.
• Do not try to do it alone if you find it difficult to keep the baby steady.

Ensure the baby always feels safe

• Throughout the process, speak softly to help the baby calm down and reduce stress.
• If the baby resists too strongly, pause for a few minutes and try again when the baby is calmer.
• Prioritize gentle and precise movements over trying to finish quickly. Applying eye drops to your baby with proper technique will help the medication work more effectively and reduce the risk of causing discomfort to the child.

Step 4: Administer drops correctly

Apply medication to the correct position in the eye

• After gently pulling down the lower eyelid, bring the tip of the baby's eye drop bottle close to the eye, about 2-3 cm away.
• Do not let the tip of the bottle touch the eye, eyelid, eyelashes, or skin around the eye to avoid contaminating the medication and reducing the risk of injury.
• Instill the correct number of drops as prescribed by the doctor or instructed in the usage guide. In most cases, only 1 drop per application is sufficient.

Instill drops into the conjunctival sac

• Direct the drop into the space created between the lower eyelid and the eyeball (conjunctival sac), instead of directly onto the cornea.
• After instilling, gently release the eyelid to allow the medication to spread evenly over the eye surface when the baby blinks.

Ensure medication is evenly distributed in the eye

• When the baby blinks, observe if the medication has covered the eye surface.
• If some medication flows out of the eyelid, gently blot the excess medication with a tissue or clean gauze, avoiding wiping or rubbing the eye.
• Do not instil more drops on your own if you see a little medication spill out, unless you are sure the drop did not enter the eye.

Administer gently and with the correct dosage

• Always keep your hand steady throughout the process of applying eye drops to your baby to avoid startling them.
• If multiple types of eye drops are needed, follow the instructions of the doctor or pharmacist, and maintain a gap between applications if specified.
• Always adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and frequency of use. Instilling more than instructed will not make the medication more effective and may increase the risk of irritation or waste.

Step 5: Administer drops when the baby's eyes are closed

Apply when the baby refuses to open their eyes

• If applying eye drops to your baby with open eyes is too difficult, you can try applying the drops when their eyes are closed.
• This method is especially useful for infants, young children, or when the baby is sleeping and not moving much.

Instill drops into the inner corner of the eye

• Lay the baby on their back and keep their head steady.
• Instill the correct number of baby eye drops into the inner corner of the eye near the bridge of the nose while the baby's eyes are still closed.
• Avoid letting the tip of the bottle touch the skin or eyelashes to keep the medication clean.

Allow the medication to flow into the eye naturally

• When the baby opens or blinks their eyes, the medication will naturally flow from the inner corner into the surface of the eyeball.
• This is a useful alternative when the baby consistently keeps their eyes tightly closed or resists during the process of applying eye drops to the baby.

If the baby still hasn't opened their eyes

• If necessary, you can gently help open the eyelids after instilling the drops.
• Place your index finger on the forehead just above the eye and your thumb on the cheek area below the eye, then gently separate the two eyelids to allow the medication to flow into the eye.
• This action should be performed very slowly and without strong force to avoid discomfort to the baby or causing injury to the eye area.

Notes when using this method

• The method of applying drops when the eyes are closed can be helpful in some cases, but generally, applying directly to the conjunctival sac with the lower eyelid gently pulled down still helps the medication reach the eye more accurately.
• Only use this method when the baby cannot cooperate or is sleeping, and always follow the doctor's instructions on how to use baby eye drops to achieve the best treatment efficacy.

Step 6: Wipe away excess medication

Wipe off any medication that has spilled out of the eye

• Once you are sure the baby's eye drops have entered the eye, gently wipe away any excess medication remaining on the skin around the eye.
• Cleaning helps the baby feel more comfortable and prevents the medication from running down their cheek or staining their clothes.

Use a tissue or clean gauze

• Use a soft tissue or clean gauze to gently blot the liquid on the upper eyelid, lower eyelid, eyelashes, and cheek area.
• Blot gently, do not rub, as the skin around a child's eyes is very thin and sensitive.

Avoid direct contact with the eye

• Do not touch the eyeball with a tissue or gauze, as this can cause irritation or increase the risk of infection.
• If further wiping is needed, use a clean side of the tissue or a new tissue to maintain hygiene.

Complete eye drop application correctly

• After cleaning, close the cap of the eye drop bottle tightly and store according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• If the baby accidentally rubs their eyes after applying eye drops, gently remind them to stop and check if the medication has remained in the eye.
• Always handle gently and maintain hygiene throughout the process of applying eye drops to the baby. Only wipe the medication from the outside of the eye; do not attempt to wipe medication that has entered the eye, as this may reduce treatment effectiveness.

Part 3: Tips for voluntarily applying eye drops to older children

Step 1: Position the child correctly

Lay the child on their back with their face upward

• Before applying eye drops to your child, have them lie on their back on a bed, couch, or a flat, sturdy surface.
• The child's head and face should be directed upward so you can easily see their eyes and apply eye drops to the child in the correct position.

Slightly tilt the head back for easier drop application

• Place a thin pillow under their shoulders or a rolled-up soft towel under their neck so the child's head is slightly tilted back.
• Only tilt the head back enough for the drops to easily flow into the eyes. Do not tilt too far back, as this may make the child uncomfortable.

Keep the head steady throughout the process

• Gently hold the child's head to prevent them from turning or looking down while applying eye drops.
• For active children, you can ask another person to help hold their head and reassure them to make the eye drop application quicker and safer.

Ensure the child always feels comfortable

• Speak softly and explain each step if the child is old enough to understand.
• If the child appears stressed or moves continuously, stop for a few minutes to reassure them before continuing.
• Choose a position that makes the child feel most comfortable while keeping their head stable. A correct posture will make applying eye drops to children easier, prevent medication from spilling, and increase treatment effectiveness.

Step 2: Guide the child to look upwards

Encourage the child to look up for easier drop application

• Before applying eye drops to your child, gently instruct them to look up towards their forehead or the ceiling.
• When the eyes are directed upwards, the lower eyelid will open more easily, helping the baby's eye drops go into the correct position and preventing them from spilling out.

Use toys to capture attention

• If the child has difficulty maintaining their gaze or moves continuously, hold a toy, small book, or a brightly colored object and bring it above the child's eye level.
• Ask the child to look at the object for a few seconds. This is a simple way to help the child keep their eyes steady when applying eye drops to the child.

Keep the child focused for a short time

• The child only needs to look up for a few seconds to complete the procedure.
• Chatting and encouraging them will help the child feel less stressed and cooperate better.
• Avoid using objects that make loud noises or phone screens, as these can distract the child from the desired gaze direction.

Perform the procedure quickly and gently

• Once the child's gaze is stable, quickly instill the correct number of drops as prescribed.
• After instilling, let the child blink naturally to spread the medication evenly over the eye surface.
• Combine verbal instructions with an age-appropriate attention-grabbing object. This method helps applying eye drops to children proceed more gently, reduces resistance, and increases the likelihood of the medication working effectively.

Step 3: Gently pull down the lower eyelid correctly

Create a space to apply drops

• After the child looks up, place a clean finger on the cheek area just below the eye for support.
• Gently pull the lower eyelid down just enough to create a small pocket between the eyelid and the eyeball. This is the correct position to apply eye drops to the child.
• Only create a small opening; there's no need to pull hard or open the eye too wide.

Perform very gently

• Perform slowly to avoid startling or discomforting the child.
• Do not press directly on the eyeball, as this can cause pain or irritation.
• Keep your hand steady throughout the process of applying eye drops to your child to ensure the medication is delivered to the correct spot.

Hold the dropper at the correct distance

• After creating the space, bring the tip of the baby's eye drop bottle close to the eye, but do not let the tip touch the eyelid, eyelashes, or the eye surface.
• This helps keep the dropper tip sterile and reduces the risk of infection.

Help the child cooperate better

• If the child moves a lot, remind them to keep looking up or ask another adult to gently hold their head.
• Praise the child immediately after completion to create a positive experience for subsequent eye drop applications.

Always prioritize gentle and precise actions. Proper eyelid pulling technique not only helps the baby's eye drops work better but also reduces discomfort and minimizes the need for repeated applications.

Step 4: Administer the correct dosage

Administer the prescribed number of drops

• After creating a gap in the lower eyelid, gently squeeze the bottle to administer the correct number of baby's eye drops as directed by the doctor or manufacturer.
• Do not arbitrarily increase the number of drops with the hope that the medication will work faster. In most cases, just 1 drop is enough to cover the eye surface.

Administer the medication to the correct position

• Direct the drop into the conjunctival sac, which is the space between the lower eyelid and the eyeball.
• Keep the tip of the bottle about 2–3 cm away from the eye and absolutely do not let the tip touch the eye, eyelid, or eyelashes to avoid contamination.

Minimize medication flowing into the tear duct

• Try to administer the medication into the middle or outer part of the lower eyelid, rather than letting it pool in the corner of the eye near the bridge of the nose.
• This helps the medication stay on the eye surface longer, reduces the amount of medication flowing through the tear duct, thereby increasing treatment effectiveness and reducing the amount of medication going down the nose or throat.

To make the medication work better

• After administering eye drops to the baby, encourage the child to blink gently a few times or close their eyes for about 1–2 minutes if possible.
• If directed by the doctor, you can use a clean finger to gently press on the corner of the eye near the bridge of the nose for about 1 minute to prevent the medication from flowing through the tear duct, especially for certain medications that need increased absorption in the eye.
• Always adhere to the correct dosage and technique for administering baby eye drops. A precise action will help the medication work optimally, while reducing the risk of waste or eye irritation.

Step 5: Instruct the child to blink

To spread the medication evenly on the eye surface

• After administering eye drops to the baby, instruct the child to blink gently 1–2 times to allow the eye drops to spread evenly over the eye surface.
• If the child cooperates well, you can also ask them to close their eyes for about 10 seconds and then open them slowly. This method helps the medication stay on the eye longer and work effectively.

Avoid blinking too forcefully

• Encourage the child to blink naturally, without closing their eyes too tightly, as this can push the medication out.
• If the child is too young to follow instructions, just letting them blink by natural reflex is sufficient.

Do not rub eyes after administering medication

• Remind the child not to rub their eyes immediately after administering baby eye drops.
• Rubbing eyes can wipe away the medication, increasing the risk of irritation or introducing bacteria from the hands into the eyes.
• If the eyes feel slightly gritty or vision is blurred for a moment, explain that this is common and will quickly pass.

Help the child form good habits

• Praise the child when they follow instructions correctly to create a positive mindset for future eye drop administrations.
• Maintain a gentle and patient attitude. Just a few seconds of proper blinking or eye closure after administering eye drops to the baby can help the medication achieve better therapeutic effects.

Step 6: Wash hands after administering eye drops

Wash your hands and the baby's hands thoroughly

• After administering eye drops to the baby, wash both your hands and the child's hands thoroughly to reduce the risk of spreading bacteria or viruses.
• This step is especially important if the baby has conjunctivitis (pink eye) or other eye infections, as germs can remain on hands after touching the eye area or a wiping cloth.

Wash hands correctly

• Use soap and clean water to wash hands for at least 20 seconds.
• Thoroughly scrub palms, backs of hands, between fingers, fingertips, and under fingernails before rinsing thoroughly with water.
• Dry hands with a clean towel or single-use paper towel to complete the hygiene process.

Help limit infection within the family

• If the baby has a habit of touching their eyes, washing hands immediately after administering baby eye drops will help reduce the risk of transferring germs to objects or other people.
• Also, thoroughly wash face towels, eye wipes, and avoid sharing personal items during treatment.

Maintain daily hygiene habits

• Instruct the child to wash their hands frequently, especially before touching their eyes and after wiping their eyes or blowing their nose.
• Consider handwashing an essential part of baby eye care. This is a simple but very effective measure to limit the spread of disease and support faster recovery.

Part 4: How to administer eye drops when the child is crying and struggling

Step 1: Stabilize the child when administering eye drops

Hold the child in a safe position for easy eye drop administration

• If the child is constantly moving and unable to cooperate, lay them on their back on a flat surface, with their head near the caregiver for easy observation and manipulation.
• The goal is to keep the child's head and body stable for a short period so that administering eye drops to the baby is quick and safe.

Gently restrict movement

• One way to help is to rest the child's head between the caregiver's thighs, while holding the child's arms close to their body with the inner part of the legs.
• Apply just enough pressure to prevent the child from flailing their arms or turning, and absolutely do not press on their arms or cause discomfort.
• Throughout the process, always observe to ensure the child is breathing normally and feels safe.

Prioritize asking for assistance from others

• If possible, ask another adult to hold the child's head and reassure them, while you administer the baby's eye drops.
• This method is often safer and more comfortable than one person having to hold the child and administer the drops.

Complete the procedure quickly and reassure the child

• Once the child is stable, quickly administer the correct number of drops as prescribed and then immediately release them.
• Praise and comfort the child after completion to help reduce their anxiety for future eye drop administrations.
• Only apply restraint when absolutely necessary and for the shortest possible time. Always prioritize methods that encourage cooperation, such as explaining, reassuring, or seeking assistance, before having to fix the child's position.

Step 2: Wait for the baby to close their eyes before administering medication

Wait until the baby is calmer

• If the child is crying a lot, struggling, or constantly closing their eyes tightly, do not try to open their eyes immediately as this may make them more scared and resistant.
• Wait until the child's head is still and eyes are closed for a few seconds to make administering eye drops to the baby easier.

Administer medication when eyes are closed if necessary

• When the baby cannot cooperate, you can administer baby eye drops into the inner corner of the eye (near the bridge of the nose) while their eyes are closed.
• When the child opens their eyes or blinks, the medication will naturally flow onto the eye surface. This is a useful solution when eye drops cannot be administered in the usual way.

Do not force eyes open when the child resists strongly

• Avoid using force to separate the eyelids if the child is struggling or crying loudly, as this can scare them more or accidentally cause damage to the eye area.
• If the baby is too stressed, take a few minutes to soothe them and then try again.

Keep actions gentle and safe

• After administering the medication, observe to ensure it has entered the eye when the child opens their eyes or blinks.
• If the medication flows out completely before the child opens their eyes and has not entered the eye, consult your doctor or pharmacist about whether to reapply.
• Prioritize calm and patience throughout the process of administering baby eye drops. Choosing the right time when the child is less agitated will make administering eye drops easier and reduce stress for both the child and caregiver.

Step 3: Administer drops into the inner corner of the eye

Administer drops to the correct position when the baby's eyes are closed

• If the baby's eyes are closed and they cannot cooperate, administer baby eye drops into the inner corner of the eye, near the bridge of the nose.
• Administer the correct number of drops as prescribed by the doctor or according to the instructions for use. Do not arbitrarily increase the dosage, as more drops do not make the medication more effective.

Allow the medication to flow into the eye naturally

• The medication will temporarily pool in the inner corner of the eye while the eye remains closed.
• When the baby opens their eyes or blinks, the medication will flow into the eye surface through the eyelid gap and take effect.
• This is a useful alternative method when administering eye drops to the baby in the usual way is difficult.

Act quickly and gently

• Keep the baby's head stable and perform the action decisively to limit the time the child feels uncomfortable.
• Do not let the tip of the dropper touch the skin, eyelids, or eyelashes to keep the dropper sterile and reduce the risk of infection.

Notes to ensure treatment effectiveness

• After administering the medication, encourage the baby to open their eyes or blink gently to allow the medication to spread evenly over the eye surface.
• If the medication flows out completely before the baby opens their eyes, consult your doctor or pharmacist about whether to reapply.
• Only use the method of administering drops into the corner of the eye when the child cannot open their eyes or does not cooperate. When possible, administering baby eye drops directly into the conjunctival sac is still the best way to get the medication to the correct location and achieve better treatment effectiveness.

Step 4: Wait for the baby to open their eyes naturally

Wait for the baby to open their eyes after administering medication

• After applying baby eye drops to the corner of a closed eye, patiently wait for the baby to open or blink naturally.
• When the eyelids open, the drops will flow from the corner of the eye onto the surface of the eyeball and begin to work.
• If the medication has not spread evenly, you can gently guide the baby to tilt their head back a little more to help the drops flow into the eye.

Do not rush to force the baby's eyes open

• If the child is still scared or unwilling to open their eyes immediately, continue to reassure them and wait a little longer.
• In many cases, children will open their eyes on their own once they are calmer, without the need for intervention.

Assist in opening eyelids only when absolutely necessary

• If medication needs to be applied to the eye immediately as instructed by a doctor, you can gently assist in opening the eyelids.
• Place your index finger on the upper eyelid and your thumb on the lower eyelid, then slowly separate the two eyelids to allow the drops to flow into the eye.
• The action must be very gentle, avoiding strong force or causing pain to the child.

Check if the medication has entered the eye

• After the baby opens their eyes, observe if the medication has come into contact with the eye's surface.
• If the medication flows out completely and does not enter the eye, it may be necessary to reapply eye drops for the baby as instructed by the doctor or pharmacist.
• Applying drops when the eyes are closed is a supportive solution when the child is uncooperative, but generally, its effectiveness may be lower compared to applying drops directly into the conjunctival sac when the eyes are open.

Notes for treatment effectiveness

• After the medication has entered the eye, encourage the baby to blink gently or close their eyes for a few seconds to help the medication spread evenly.
• Prioritize applying eye drops for the baby with open eyes if the child can cooperate, as this method helps the medication reach the correct location, works more effectively, and reduces the risk of needing multiple reapplications.

Step 5: Wipe away excess medication and sanitize hands

Wipe away any remaining medication around the eye

• Once you are certain the baby eye drops have entered the eye, gently blot any remaining medication on the eyelids and the skin around the eye with a soft tissue or clean gauze.
• Only wipe the medication on the outside; do not wipe directly on the eyeball to avoid removing the medication that is working.

Gentle handling to protect the eyes

• Blot gently instead of rubbing, as the skin around a child's eyes is very thin and easily irritated.
• If multiple wipes are needed, use a fresh, clean part of the tissue or a new tissue to maintain hygiene.

Wash hands after completion

• Immediately after administering eye drops to the baby, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds.
• Also, clean the child's hands to remove any medication or discharge that may still be on them, especially if the child has touched their eyes.

Limit the spread of bacteria and viruses

• If the child has conjunctivitis (pink eye) or an eye infection, washing hands after administering baby eye drops is an important step to reduce the risk of spreading the illness to family members.
• Combine handwashing with not sharing face towels, eye wipes, or eye drop bottles among multiple people to enhance infection prevention and support the treatment process.

Notes when applying eye drops to babies

Stay calm for better cooperation from the baby

• Children often sense their caregiver's emotions. If you maintain a calm and gentle demeanor, the baby will be less stressed and more cooperative when you apply their eye drops.
• If the first attempt is unsuccessful, don't be discouraged. For children who are fussy or move a lot, it may be necessary to try again after they have calmed down.

Keep the tip of the eye drop bottle clean

• Do not touch the tip of the baby eye drop bottle with your hands.
• Avoid letting the bottle tip touch the eye, eyelids, eyelashes, or any surface to prevent contamination.
• After each use, close the cap tightly and store the medication according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Wash hands throughout the care process

• Wash your hands with soap and clean water before and after applying eye drops to the baby.
• If you accidentally touch the child's eye area or secretions, wash your hands again immediately to reduce the risk of spreading pathogens.

Prevent infection spread among family members

• Eye infections, especially conjunctivitis (pink eye), are highly contagious through contact.
• If multiple children have eye infections, each child should use separate eye wipes, face towels, and eye drop bottles.
• Do not share eye care tools among family members to prevent cross-contamination.

Do not use expired eye drops

• Check the expiration date before each use and adhere to the usage period after opening, as instructed by the manufacturer.
• If the medication is expired, has changed color, has sediment, or is suspected of being contaminated, discontinue use and replace with a new bottle.
• Do not share one bottle of baby eye drops among multiple people, even if they have the same symptoms.

Discard medication after treatment if recommended

• After the child recovers, the used bottle of medication should be discarded if the manufacturer or doctor recommends not continuing to use it after opening.
• Many types of eye drops should only be used for a limited time after opening (usually about 4 weeks, depending on the product), as the risk of contamination may increase thereafter.
• Always read the storage instructions and expiration date for each medication carefully. Using the correct technique, adhering to the correct duration, and maintaining hygiene throughout the process of applying eye drops to the baby will enhance treatment effectiveness and protect the child's eye health.

References

1. American Academy of Pediatrics. HealthyChildren.org. Eye Infections in Children. American Academy of Pediatrics.
2. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Eye Health. How to Use Eye Drops Correctly. American Academy of Ophthalmology.
3. American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS). Eye Drops and Eye Ointments in Children. American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Prevention, Treatment, and Infection Control. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
5. National Health Service (NHS). How to Give Eye Drops and Eye Ointment to Babies and Children. NHS England.
6. MedlinePlus. How to Use Eye Drops. U.S. National Library of Medicine.
7. Merck Manual Consumer Version. Administering Eye Medications. Merck & Co., Inc.
8. Mayo Clinic Staff. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic.
9. Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Kids Health Info: Eye Infections and Eye Medicines. Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne.
10. World Health Organization. Infection Prevention and Control. World Health Organization.
11. American Pharmacists Association. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmacists Association.
12. Kanski, J. J., & Bowling, B. Kanski's Clinical Ophthalmology: A Systematic Approach. Elsevier.
13. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Basic and Clinical Science Course (BCSC): External Disease and Cornea. American Academy of Ophthalmology.
14. Nelson, W. E., Kliegman, R. M., St. Geme, J. W., & Blum, N. J. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. Elsevier.
15. World Health Organization. WHO Guidelines on Hand Hygiene in Health Care. World Health Organization.

Content edited by: Rowan Hudson Le.

Information consulted and verified by expert: James Mitchell.