Administration should include knowledge of the purpose of OTC medicines to treat ear infections, inflammation, pain, and to soften wax.
Administration should include adhering to the following procedures:
- Provide for client privacy.
- Verify the medication order for accuracy with the MAR.
- Date and initial multi-use containers when opened.
- Wash your hands.
- Put on gloves if the client's ears are infected or bleeding.
- Make sure the medication is room temperature.
- Position the client on their side with the unaffected ear facing downward and the affected ear facing upward.
- Use tissue or a gauze pad to wipe any secretions or drainage from the outside of the ear. Do not use a cotton swab or other sharp object.
- When in a container that includes a dropper, remove the cap from the bottle and place it upside down on a clean, dry surface.
- If using a separate dropper, check for cracks.
- For an adult, straighten the ear canal by gently pulling the ear up and outward; for a child, pull the ear back and down.
- Drop the prescribed amount of medication onto the outer part of the ear canal and gently rotate to move the medication into the ear canal.
- Instruct the client to maintain the position for 5 minutes to prevent medication from rolling out of the ear.
- Remove the extra medication with a cotton ball.
- If included in instructions, place a cotton ball in the client’s ear.
- Replace the cap and check for tight closure.
- Remove and properly dispose of gloves and wash your hands.
- Document in the MAR, per facility protocol.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What can an MA do to bring medication to room temperature?
- How can the MA ensure that the patient remains in position for 5 minutes after administration of the medication?