Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva and it is usually caused by allergy, infection, or trauma. Conjunctivitis that is caused by bacteria or virus is extremely contagious.

Signs and Symptoms of Conjunctivitis:

• Redness
• Itching, burning, or scratchy eyelids
• Edema
• Discharge

Nursing Interventions:

1. Instruct patient in infection control: good hand washing, not sharing towels, and washcloth
2. Administer antibiotic, antiviral eye drops or ointments or antihistamines as prescribed
3. The child should be kept home from school or day care until antibiotic eye drops have been given for 24 hours
4. Cool compresses can be used to lessen irritation and dark glasses can be worn for photophobia
5. Discontinue wearing contact lenses (if any) and obtain new lenses to eliminate the reinfection
6. Discharge eye makeup (if any)