Which practice is recommended for rinsing GP lenses to reduce infection risk?

• A. sodium chloride solutions or MPS
• B. tap water
• C. distilled water
• D. no rinse required

Answer: (A)

Rinsing GP lenses with a sterile, eye-safe medium helps remove surface debris and lowers the amount of microbes on the lens before it contacts the eye. Sterile saline solutions (sodium chloride) and multipurpose solutions are specifically formulated for lens use, providing an isotonic, clean rinse that won’t introduce pathogens or irritants. In contrast, tap water can harbor bacteria, amoebae, and other microorganisms that pose a real risk of eye infection, while distilled water is not sterile for ocular use and can carry contaminants and cause osmotic or material compatibility issues with the lens. No rinse is not advisable because deposits and residual cleaning/disinfection solutions can remain on the lens, increasing infection risk.