Title: Administer or assist the client with self-administration of eardrops.
Course: Medication Aide (14051-36) > Section: Examining Administration of Prepared Instillations and Treatments

Administration should include knowledge of the purpose of OTC medicines to treat ear infections, inflammation, pain, and to soften wax.

Administration should include adhering to the following procedures:

- Provide for client privacy.
- Verify the medication order for accuracy with the MAR.
- Date and initial multi-use containers when opened.
- Wash your hands.
- Put on gloves if the client's ears are infected or bleeding.
- Make sure the medication is room temperature.
- Position the client on their side with the unaffected ear facing downward and the affected ear facing upward.
- Use tissue or a gauze pad to wipe any secretions or drainage from the outside of the ear. Do not use a cotton swab or other sharp object.
- When in a container that includes a dropper, remove the cap from the bottle and place it upside down on a clean, dry surface.
- If using a separate dropper, check for cracks.
- For an adult, straighten the ear canal by gently pulling the ear up and outward; for a child, pull the ear back and down.
- Drop the prescribed amount of medication onto the outer part of the ear canal and gently rotate to move the medication into the ear canal.
- Instruct the client to maintain the position for 5 minutes to prevent medication from rolling out of the ear.
- Remove the extra medication with a cotton ball.
- If included in instructions, place a cotton ball in the client’s ear.
- Replace the cap and check for tight closure.
- Remove and properly dispose of gloves and wash your hands.
- Document in the MAR, per facility protocol.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What can an MA do to bring medication to room temperature?
- How can the MA ensure that the patient remains in position for 5 minutes after administration of the medication?