To minimize systemic absorption of eyedrops, the nurse should instruct the patient to do which of the following?

Occluding the nasolacrimal duct after administering eyedrops is an effective technique for minimizing systemic absorption. This method works by preventing tears containing the medication from draining into the nasal cavity and subsequently into the systemic circulation. By applying gentle pressure to the nasolacrimal duct, typically located at the inner corner of the eye, the nurse helps to keep the medication localized in the eye for a longer duration, enhancing its therapeutic effect and reducing the likelihood of systemic side effects.

The other options do not significantly impact systemic absorption. Eating a meal does not influence the efficacy or absorption of the eyedrops. Rapid blinking may help spread the drops across the surface of the eye but does not prevent them from draining into the nasolacrimal system. Lying down for several minutes may be comfortable but is not a recognized method to reduce systemic absorption and may not have any relevant physiological effect in this context. Thus, occluding the nasolacrimal duct stands out as the most effective strategy to achieve the desired outcome.