Why is this procedure done?
Your doctor has ordered a drug for your ear. You may need to use it in one or both ears. ‚
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What will the results be?
The drops will get in your ear and the drug will be absorbed so your body can use it. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Make sure you have all of the items that you will need. Place them on a clean surface nearby.
- Ear drops
- A small piece of cotton
- Check the drug.
- Read the label to make sure that you have the correct drug.
- Never use anyone elses ear drops, even if they are the same drug.
- Make sure you have the right dose. Check the amount of drug with what the doctor ordered.
- Know if you are supposed to give the ear drops in one or both of your ears.
- Know why you are taking the ear drops and the expected outcome.
- Check the expiration date. Do not use it if it is expired.
- Wash your hands with warm, soapy water before you begin. You may also want to gently clean your ear with a warm, wet cloth. Dry your ear with a towel.
What happens during the procedure?
- Shake the ear drops each time before you use them.
- Sit or lie down with the ear that needs the ear drops pointing up.
- Drops may run out of the ear. If laying down, place a towel under your head. If sitting, place a towel on your shoulder.
- Move the ear to straighten the ear canal.
- Adults ¢ ˆ ’ Gently pull the earlobe up and toward the back of the head to straighten it.
- Children ¢ ˆ ’ Gently pull the earlobe down and towards the back of the head to straighten it.
- Put the tip of the dropper in the ear about 1/3 inch (0.8 cm). Try not to touch the dropper to your ear.
- Put the correct number of drops in your ear.
- Gently press the small skin flap over the ear to help the drops run into the ear.
- Continue to lie with your head to the side for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Your doctor may want you to put a small cotton plug in your ear to help keep the drops in place.
What happens after the procedure?
- When you finish, rinse the tip of the ear drop container with hot water and dry with a clean tissue.
- Wash your hands to remove any drug that may be on them.
- Recap the ear drop container.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Mild itching
- Burning
- Stinging
- Increase in drainage from the ear
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Signs of an allergic reaction. These include redness, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
- You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse
Helpful tips
- The ear drops should be room temperature. If you want them warmer, hold them in the palm of your hands for a few minutes before using them. Do not expose the ear drops to heat. Store the ear drops away from sunlight.
Where can I learn more?
American Society or Health-System Pharmacists ‚
http://www.safemedication.com/safemed/MedicationTipsTools/HowtoAdminister/HowtoUseEarDropsProperly ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚