How to Use Ear Drops
Doctors prescribe antibiotic ear drops to treat infections in the ear, reduce swelling inside the ear and treat discomfort caused by irritation or drainage. Over-the-counter ear drops use alcohol to dry moisture in the ear canal caused by swimming, or a hydrogen peroxide-solution to break down and eliminate excessive ear wax. Special care needs is required when administering ear drops to reduce the chance of adverse reactions and promote proper healing.
- Identify the dosage instructions and proper usage of medication before administering. Ask your doctor of pharmacists to clarify any questions you have about dosage amount, duration and possible side effects of the medicine.
- Wash hands with mild soap and water to remove dirt and bacteria and prevent contamination. Stand in front of a mirror if placing drops into your own ear. In children, have them lay on their side.
- Clean the outside of the ear with a clean, moist cloth or sterile cotton pad. Dry the entire ear area with a towel. Remember to clean and dry gently to avoid irritating the ear.
- Hold the closed medicine bottle in the palm of your hand and clasp your hand shut for a few minutes. This warms the liquid medicine to near body temperature and reduces discomfort caused by cold medicine entering the ear.
- Gently shake the medicine bottle for approximately 10 seconds to mix the contents. Open the bottle and check the edge of the dropper for chips or cracks that can cut the ear or make accurate dosage difficult.
- Draw the medicine into the dropper by squeezing the bulb shut and then releasing while the tip is in the medicine. Make sure you have pulled enough medicine into the dropper before administering the drops.
- Tilt the head so the affected ear is pointing upward. If standing, pull the ear back and up to open the ear canal. In children under the age of 3, pull the ear back and down to open the ear canal.
- Place the recommended number of drops into the ear canal. Avoid contaminating the dropper by not touching the skin with the dropper. Use your finger to press the small flap of skin on the outside of the ear to help the drops run into the ear canal.
- Keep the head tilted, for a few minutes, to prevent the drops from running out. Wipe excess medicine from the outside of the ear or neck with a clean cloth or tissue. Place a cotton plug or cotton ball into the outer ear if instructed by the doctor.
- Return dropper to bottle and secure. Wash your hands to remove any medication. Remember to use the medicine as directed on the label or by your doctor. Antibiotic drops need to be used for the length of time and in the intervals prescribed. Store all medications in a safe place, away from children.