Lorraine Poulos

27 Medication Support Safe ear drops administration 1 2 3 4 Know your client: • Understand relevant medical condition related to ear drops • Check care plan for instructions regarding storage/ handling Before the task: • Check medication chart / care plan for directions for administration • Check if drops are for one or both ears • Attend hand hygiene • Check medication chart / care plan for directions for administration During the task: • Ask the client to turn their head and tilt slightly so you can see the ear clearly • Note if there is any discharge and clean • Hold the earlobe gently upwards and outwards and instill prescribed number of drops • Avoid touching the ear with the container • Maintain holding the ear for 30 seconds • Dry area around outside of the ear with a tissue After the task: • Recap the container and store appropriately • Check client is comfortable • Observe for any reactions Document in the Client Journal: • Redness, discharge, visible wax, pain or discomfort 5 Guide for consumers, carers and workers