What action should be taken to minimize systemic absorption of ophthalmic medication?

To minimize systemic absorption of ophthalmic medication, applying pressure to the tear duct for 30 seconds is the most effective action. This technique, known as punctal occlusion, reduces the amount of medication that drains through the nasolacrimal duct into the systemic circulation. By occluding the duct, more of the medication stays in the eye where it is needed, and less enters the bloodstream, thereby reducing the risk of systemic side effects.

Waiting 5 minutes between instilling drops in different eyes, while a good practice to prevent the second drop from washing away the first, does not directly minimize systemic absorption. Wiping excess medication away with a sterile cotton ball does help to keep the medication localized but does not specifically target drainage into the systemic circulation. Administering the drops without asking for the client's input disregards patient autonomy and does not affect the absorption process directly. Therefore, applying pressure to the tear duct is the best method for minimizing systemic absorption.