Lens application: which steps should you perform before inserting a contact lens?

• A. Directly place lens on eye without inspection
• B. Ask patient to apply self-titting
• C. Clean lens with soap
• D. Adjust headrest, stand lamp, and seat height, wash your hands, dry your hands, place lens on index finger, inspect for defects, deposits, debris, or inversion

Answer: (D)

Before inserting a lens, you need a clean, properly set-up, and inspected lens. Start by adjusting the chair, headrest, and lighting so you can work comfortably and see clearly. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly to prevent transferring germs or oils to the lens or eye. Place the lens on your index finger and inspect it closely for any defects, deposits, debris, or inversion (inside-out orientation). This check helps ensure the lens is intact, clean, and correctly oriented, reducing the risk of irritation, discomfort, or eye injury once inserted.

Directly placing a lens on the eye without inspection can irritate or injure the eye if there are defects or deposits. Asking the patient to apply the lens themselves isn’t appropriate in a clinical handling procedure. Cleaning a lens with soap is not correct; soaps can leave residues and are not designed for contact lenses—use only approved lens-cleaning solutions.