Depending on the kind of povidone proscribed, the procedure for applying it may vary slightly. Povidone commonly comes in aerosol sprays, liquid solutions, creams, and saturated pads/swabs. [2] X Research source
According to your preference, you can leave the area uncovered or cover it with a sterile bandage. Povidone solutions have a tendency to stain the skin a yellow-orange color. Even if a bandage isn’t necessary, it can be useful for hiding povidone stains. [3] X Research source
Povidone allergies are somewhat rare, but not unheard of. Take a moment to look at the allergy symptoms listed on label or in the instructions. [4] X Research source Povidone should be stored at room temperature, away from light, heat, and moisture. [5] X Research source
If your povidone came with an eyedropper, each drop will contain about 0. 05 milliliters (0. 0017 fl oz), or 20 drops per milliliter. To make 11 milliliters (0. 37 fl oz) of diluted solution, mix 1 milliliter (0. 034 fl oz) (20 drops) of povidone with 10 milliliters (0. 34 fl oz) of distilled or boiled water.
You can flush an affected area with a diluted povidone solution in this fashion up to four times a day for a max of 14 days in a row. If using diluted povidone vaginally, only apply a diluted solution once per day for 14 days at most (including days you are menstruating). When using povidone to treat the mouth or throat, avoid swallowing the diluted solution. Treating the mouth or throat with povidone isn’t recommended for children under six years old. [7] X Trustworthy Source U. S. National Capital Poison Center Independent poison control center providing resources to prevent poisonings and save lives Go to source
The kind of soap you use is up to your personal preference. Any normal kind of hand soap should work just fine. Hand sanitizer might be your best bet for cleaning your hands if there isn’t a convenient source of clean water in your area. [9] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Refrain from touching the dropper with your hands or touching the dropper to any surface. This can dirty the dropper and contaminate the solution. [10] X Research source
The dropper should be very close to your eye, as this will reduce missed drops and wasted medicine. However, be careful not to touch the dropper to your eye. [12] X Research source
It can help to look upwards when applying eyedrops. If your hands are unsteady, brace your fingers against your face. [13] X Research source Using a 5% povidone solution is common before optical surgery or procedures, as it reduces your chances of contracting conjunctivitis (pinkeye). [14] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Some doctors may direct you to use more or less drops depending on your situation. Additional drops should be applied in the same fashion as the first. If you have to use multiple drops in a single eye, generally you should wait about five minutes between drops. [16] X Research source
The final handwashing is necessary to remove solution that may have spread to your fingers while applying the drops. [17] X Research source Store your povidone at room temperature in a location that keeps the solution from exposure to light, heat, and moisture. [18] X Research source
