How to Put In Infant Eye Drops

Many adults have problems administering eye drops to themselves, let alone putting them in a child's eyes. But you can put eye drops in infant eyes with a little finesse. Infant pink eye (conjunctivitis) is a common infection where eye drops are prescribed. Babies may need saline solution administered if their eyes appear crusty, red or irritated. As always, consult with your pediatrician before attempting to give any medication---prescription or not.

Things You'll Need

  • Eyedropper
  • Eye drops
  • Baby
  • Another adult
  • Swaddling blanket (if baby is small enough)

Instructions

    • 1

      Wash your hands before attempting to put in eye drops.

    • 2

      Get another adult to help you, if possible. Sometimes it really helps to have another person acting as a distraction. They can hold up a rattle or make funny faces at baby during this whole ordeal.

    • 3

      Relax. Babies feed off your emotions so you want to remain calm and in control. If you appear nervous or in a rush, your infant will likely give you a hard time. Speak softly and be prepared to hold your baby firmly, but gently.

    • 4

      Lay your baby down with his back to the floor. If he's a newborn, you may want to swaddle him in a blanket to keep him secure. If your infant is older, you can keep him sitting upright. Do whatever is easiest for both of you.

    • 5

      Keep baby's head still. If baby's lying on the floor, put your knees next to her head to keep her steady. If she's sitting upright, cradle her in your arms and position her head near your armpit so she's snug between your arm and your body.

    • 6

      Take your index finger below his eyelid and gently pull down. At the same time, put your thumb on his forehead and pull up. Do not stretch. You are only gently pulling baby's eye open. Your hand should form a V.

    • 7

      Hover the dropper about an inch above baby's eye and squeeze in the recommended amount of drops. Try to be as steady as possible.

    • 8

      Repeat on other side.

    • 9

      Wash your hands again when you're done administering drops.

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