A nurse in a pediatric clinic is preparing to administer ear drops to a 5-year-old. Which is an appropriate action by the nurse?

Question

A nurse in a pediatric clinic is preparing to administer ear drops to a 5-year-old.  Which is an appropriate action by the nurse?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecbb05_cb39_dbd5_b433_dd4139913898_MD0009_00 When administering an otic medication to an adult or child age 3 and older, the pinna is pulled upward and back to straighten the external ear canal (Option B). For an infant, the pinna is pulled downward and straight back. (Option A) The child should be placed in the prone or supine position with the head turned to the appropriate side. (Option C) Otic medication should be warmed to room temperature if removed from a refrigerator prior to administration. Holding the bottle in the palm of the hand is an effective method of warming. Instilling cold drops into the ear can cause a vestibular reaction, resulting in dizziness and vomiting. (Option D) The medication dropper should be held near the entrance to the ear canal without touching it. This technique allows the drops to fall against the wall of the canal, reducing discomfort while avoiding contamination of the dropper. After instilling the drops, the child should remain with the affected ear up for several minutes to allow full coverage of the medication. Educational objective: When administering otic medication to children age 3 and older, the pinna is pulled upward and back to straighten the ear canal. The child is placed in a prone or supine position with the head turned to the appropriate side, and the medication is allowed to drop against the wall of the canal.

A Nurse in a Pediatric Clinic Is Preparing to Administer