Administering Ear Medication
Medical Equipments:
Medication Administration Record (MAR)
Cotton-tipped Applicator
Cotton Balls
Medications
Non-sterile gloves
Tissue
Nursing Procedures:
Determine the allergies for any medication
Check the written order on MAR
Wash hand
Calculate the dose
Identify patient’s armband
Explain the procedure to the patient
Place patient in a side lying position with the affected ear facing up
Don non-sterile gloves
Straighten the ear canal by pulling the pinna down and back for children or upward and outward for adults
The drops are instilled into the ear canal by holding the dropper at least ½ inch above the ear canal
Instruct patient to maintain the position for 2-3 minutes
Place a cotton ball n the outermost part of the canal
Wash hand
Record the drug, number of drops, time administered, and medication on MAR