To stabilize an unstable patient during an ocular procedure, which approach is recommended?

• A. Lock chair; patient has feet firm on the ground; patient holds the sides of the table
• B. Stand behind the patient and restrain the head
• C. Have the patient lie down
• D. Use a neck strap across the chest

Answer: (B)

Head stabilization is crucial during ocular procedures because even small movements of the head can throw the eye out of alignment and increase the risk of injury or imprecise results. Standing behind the patient and gently restraining the head gives the clinician direct, controlled control over all directions of head motion, allowing precise access to the eye and safer execution of the procedure. This approach is more reliable than trying to rely on the chair or patient’s own actions, which may not adequately limit movement. Lying down or using a neck strap can either fail to prevent head motion or introduce other hazards, such as uncomfortable pressure or breathing restriction, making them less appropriate.