When instilling an ophthalmic preparation, the psychiatric technician should first draw the:

When instilling an ophthalmic preparation, drawing the lower conjunctival sac downward is the appropriate technique. This action creates a small pocket that allows for the medication to be placed directly where it is needed, ensuring optimal absorption into the eye. By pulling down the lower eyelid gently, the practitioner can efficiently instill the prescribed drop, minimizing the risk of the medication spilling over the eyelid or exiting the eye. This technique also helps to avoid contacting the surface of the eye directly with the dropper, maintaining sterility and preventing potential contamination.

Using this method ensures that the instillation is as effective as possible, as the conjunctival sac is specifically designed to hold fluids and provide the necessary exposure for the eye to absorb the medication effectively. This aligns with best practices for ophthalmic administration and enhances patient comfort by ensuring the medication is delivered accurately.