Certified Clinical Medical Assistant CCMA Practice Test

An MA is administering eye ointment to a pt. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?

1. Apply ointment directly onto the eyeball

2. Apply a thick layer of ointment all over the eye

3. Apply ointment on the eyelids

4. Apply a thin ribbon of ointment along the conjunctival sac

The correct answer is: Apply a thin ribbon of ointment along the conjunctival sac

Applying a thin ribbon of ointment along the conjunctival sac is the correct action when administering eye ointment. This method ensures that the ointment is placed in the appropriate location, allowing for maximum contact with the affected area while minimizing the risk of injury or discomfort to the patient. The conjunctival sac is the space between the eyeball and the eyelids, and placing the ointment here helps in the effective treatment of eye conditions by allowing it to spread evenly across the surface of the eye when the patient blinks. This technique also prevents contamination of the applicator, as it avoids direct contact with the eyeball or eyelids. Other options involve techniques that either risk damaging the eye or do not effectively deliver the medication where it is needed, leading to inadequate treatment of any underlying conditions.