When prescribed loteprednol, what is the key instruction a nurse should give a patient to minimize adverse effects?

The key instruction to minimize adverse effects when prescribed loteprednol is to continue the medication only for the length of time specified by the healthcare provider. Loteprednol is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation in the eyes. Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to increased risk of complications, such as increased intraocular pressure or cataract formation. Therefore, adhering strictly to the duration prescribed by the healthcare provider helps to mitigate these potential risks, ensuring the patient experiences the therapeutic benefits while minimizing the likelihood of adverse effects associated with extended use.

Other options may seem relevant but do not address the primary concern of managing the duration of therapy effectively. For example, wearing an eye shield for a brief period may provide some protection post-instillation, but it does not significantly impact the management of long-term side effects. The caution about using this drug with other ophthalmic drugs focuses on potential interactions, which is important but secondary to managing the duration of treatment for safety. Lastly, the advice to rise slowly pertains to a different set of side effects that aren't typically prominent with loteprednol use, emphasizing the importance of understanding treatment duration over other considerations.