Which technique will the nurse use to give ear drops to a 12-year-old child? Group of answer choices Pull the ear lobe up and out. Pull the ear lobe down and back. Pull the ear lobe out and back. Pull the ear lobe up and back.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: Pull the ear lobe up and back.
Explanation:
When administering ear drops, the technique used to position the ear varies depending on the age of the child or patient. This is because of anatomical differences in the shape and orientation of the ear canal at different ages.
For a child who is 3 years old or older, such as a 12-year-old, the proper technique is to pull the ear lobe (pinna) up and back. This action helps straighten the external auditory canal, allowing the medication to flow more effectively toward the eardrum where it is needed.
In contrast, for children younger than 3 years, the external ear should be pulled down and back. At this age, the ear canal is more horizontal, and pulling down helps straighten it to facilitate the proper delivery of medication.
The procedure for administering ear drops to a 12-year-old involves the following steps:
- Have the child lie down or tilt their head so the affected ear is facing upward.
- Warm the ear drops to body temperature by holding the bottle in your hand for a few minutes (cold drops may cause dizziness).
- Pull the pinna up and back to straighten the ear canal.
- Administer the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal without touching the dropper to the ear.
- Have the child remain in that position for 2–5 minutes to ensure the medication coats the inside of the canal.
- Optionally, place a small cotton ball at the ear’s opening to prevent leakage (if directed by the healthcare provider).
Using the correct ear-drop technique is essential to ensure the medication reaches the infected or affected area and provides effective treatment. Improper technique could lead to inadequate delivery, discomfort, or even injury to the ear.