Pharm

Ear Canal Instillation

search

Ear Canal Instillation, Ear Canal Topical Medications, Ear Drops, Otic Solution

  • See Also
  1. Otitis Externa
  2. Cerumen Removal
  3. Antibiotic Drops Via Patent Tympanostomy Tube
  • Precautions
  1. Tympanic Membrane Perforation
    1. Ear Drops must be sterile AND not ototoxic
    2. See Antibiotic Drops Via Patent Tympanostomy Tube
    3. See Bacterial Otitis Externa
  • Technique
  1. Warm medication bottle with hands before instillation
  2. Clear visible debris from ear canal
  3. Patient lies down on side
    1. Affected ear upward
    2. Auricle pulled upward and back
  4. Instill 1-2 drops (up to 3-5 drops) of solution or until canal fills
  5. Move pinna to help circulate the solution past the air pockets, cerumen and other obstructions
    1. Pull or massage tragus back and down several times after instilling drops
  6. Maintain decubitus position for 3-5 minutes
    1. Ear canal may dran and dry naturally afterward