During education for bacterial keratitis, how often are the two antibiotic drops supposed to be used?

• A. Every 2 hours
• B. Every 6 hours
• C. Every hour
• D. Twice daily

Answer: (A)

In treating bacterial keratitis, the priority is to keep drug levels in the cornea high enough to rapidly curb the infection. Using two antibiotic drops every two hours ensures continuous exposure of the cornea to both medications, maximizing coverage and helping to prevent the bacteria from multiplying or invading deeper tissues. Dosing less frequently—every six hours or twice daily—risks subtherapeutic levels and slower response, while an hourly schedule, though sometimes used in severe cases, is often impractical for patients. So the standard educational instruction is to administer the two antibiotic drops every two hours.