When using lid manipulation to remove a rigid lens, what should the wearer ensure first?

The correct answer emphasizes that the lens should be resting on the cornea, specifically where the fissure is widest, before attempting to use lid manipulation for removal. This position is crucial because when the lens is centered correctly on the cornea, it ensures that the edges of the lens are adequately supported by the upper and lower lids. When the lens is situated accurately, the manipulation techniques—such as blinking or dragging the lid across the lens—are more likely to be successful without causing discomfort to the wearer or risking damage to the cornea.

Ensuring the lens is in the proper position also facilitates a smooth release from the eye. If a lens is too high or not correctly aligned with the corneal surface, attempts to manipulate the eyelids might be ineffective and could lead to complications during removal.

Regarding the other choices, while they may touch on aspects of lens positioning, they do not encapsulate the foundational requirement for successful removal using lid manipulation as effectively as the correct answer does. Thus, focusing on the lens being positioned over the cornea at the widest point of the fissure underscores the best practice for safety and efficiency in lens removal.