Ear drops are often administered in pediatric care to treat conditions like ear infections or excessive wax buildup. Proper technique ensures the medication works effectively and minimizes discomfort. Parents and caregivers must understand the correct steps for preparation, administration, and aftercare, as the technique for a school-aged child differs from that for an infant or an adult.
Pre-Procedure Checks and Preparation
Before starting the procedure, a few safety checks are necessary to ensure the child’s well-being and the medication’s effectiveness. Confirm the correct medication, dose, time, and patient. Inspect the ear drops, checking the expiration date and looking for any discoloration or particulate matter.
Maintaining hand hygiene is essential; hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and water before touching the child or the medication bottle. A particularly important step is warming the bottle by holding it in your hands for one to two minutes before use. Placing cold drops into the ear canal can stimulate the inner ear’s vestibular system, potentially causing temporary dizziness, vertigo, or nausea.
The child should be positioned comfortably, typically lying on their side with the affected ear facing upward, or sitting with the head tilted to the side. This position allows gravity to assist the flow of medication into the canal. Check the outer ear for any discharge or crusting; if present, gently clean the outer ear with a warm, damp cloth, taking care not to insert anything into the ear canal.
Administering Ear Drops to a School-Aged Child
The most specific step involves manipulating the outer ear, or pinna, to straighten the ear canal. Since the ear canal has developed an S-shaped curve, similar to an adult’s, gently pull the pinna up and back to properly align the passage. This maneuver straightens the ear canal, allowing the liquid medication to flow deeply and reach the target area, such as the eardrum or the site of infection.
Hold the dropper slightly above the ear canal entrance, ensuring the tip does not touch the ear to prevent contamination. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops, aiming them to run along the side of the ear canal. This technique allows air to escape as the liquid enters, preventing an air bubble from blocking the medication’s path.
Post-Procedure Care and Safety Monitoring
After administration, the child must remain in the side-lying position with the treated ear facing upward for three to five minutes. This time allows the medication to penetrate the ear canal and maximizes absorption. To help the medication move down the canal, gently massage the tragus, the small flap of cartilage located just in front of the ear opening.
If instructed by a healthcare provider, or if excess medication is draining out, a small cotton ball can be placed loosely at the outermost opening of the ear canal. Ensure the cotton ball is not jammed or forced deep inside the ear. Once the retention time is complete, wipe away any excess medication from the outer ear.
Document the time the medication was given, the number of drops administered, and the child’s reaction to the procedure. Monitoring the child for any adverse reactions, such as increased pain, a burning sensation that does not subside quickly, or new onset of severe dizziness, is necessary. Report any concerning symptoms promptly to the healthcare provider.