Component Task: Instillation of Ear Drops

It is the administration of medication in the form of liquid drop by drop into a body space of cavity.

Aims

·         Therapeutic effects

·         Irrigation

·         Localized anaesthetic effects

Requirements

a.      A tray containing the following:

·         Medicine with a dropper

·         Sterile cotton swabs in a gallipot

·         Gauze or paper wipes

·         Solution bowl for water bath

·         Sterile swabs stick

·         Receiver for used items

b.      Treatment Chart (Manual or Electronic)

Steps

1.        Check for the right patient, right medication, right time, right dose against doctor’s order and treatment chart (manual or electronic) as well as the expiry date

2.      Establish rapport (Refer to steps)

3.      Explain procedure to patient (Refer to steps)

4.      Ensure patient’s right to know/consent and to refuse medication

5.      Perform hand hygiene

6.      Set tray and send to the bedside

7.       Check medication against the treatment chart (manual or electronic) for the right dosage

8.      Confirm the ear for their instillation by first inspecting unaffected ear then the affected ear

9.      Position patient in sitting up or lying down with the affected ear up

10.    Hold auricle upward, backward and outward to straighten the auditory canal of an adult. Hold it downward in a child

11.      Clean external auditory canal with sterile swab stick if there is a discharge

12.    Instruct patient to remain lying down with ear upward for about 5 minutes if necessary

13.    Hold medicine dropper almost horizontally, steady patient’s head to absorb excess ear drops

14.    Document procedure on nurses’ notes and chart on the treatment chart (manual or electronic)

15.    Assist patient into a desirable position

16.    Remain with patient for five (5) minutes if a child

17.    Dispose off used items and decontaminate tray

18.    Perform hand hygiene

19.    Report to appropriate officer