Nurse Jenny is instilling an otic solution into an adult male client’s left ear. Nurse Jenny avoids doing which of the following as part of the procedure
A. Pulling the auricle backward and upward.
B. Warming the solution to room temperature.
C. Pacing the tip of the dropper on the edge of the ear canal.
D. Placing the client in a side lying position.
Correct Answer: C. Placing the tip of the dropper on the edge of the ear canal.
The dropper should not touch any object or any part of the client’s ear. Don’t allow the dropper tip to touch the ear, fingers, or any other surface. It could pick up bacteria or other germs that can lead to an ear infection.
Option A: For adults, pull the auricle backward and upward to prepare the ear for insertion of the drop and ensure the drop reaches the required area. If the bottle has a dropper, draw some liquid into the dropper. If the bottle has a dropper tip, you’ll just need to turn the bottle upside down.
Option B: If indicated, the solution can be warmed by rolling the bottle in the hands for several minutes before the instillation. Warm the ear drops by holding the bottle in both hands for one to two minutes. This can help reduce any discomfort that could be caused by cold drops in the ear.
Option D: Side-lying position is the best position for instillation of the drops and this also ensures comfort for the service user. Position the head so that the ear faces upward. If giving the drops to someone else, it may be easiest if the person tilts their head or lies down on their side.