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Difficulty: EasyPharmacological Therapies

A 45-year-old client on a medical unit is prescribed antibiotic ear drops for an acute outer ear infection. Which of the following techniques should the practical nurse use when administering this medication?

  1. Pull the client's pinna upward and backward before instilling the drops.Answer
  2. B
    Pull the client's pinna downward and backward to straighten the ear canal.
  3. C
    Administer the ear drops immediately after removing them from a cold refrigerator.
  4. D
    Position the client in a high-Fowler's position with the head tilted forward.

Answer

The practical nurse should pull the pinna upward and backward to straighten the ear canal for an adult client.
For clients older than 3 years of age and adults, the ear canal is straightened by gently pulling the pinna upward and backward. This essential anatomical adjustment ensures the medication flows deeply into the ear canal to treat the infection effectively.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the age of the client.
The client is 45 years old (an adult).
Ear drop administration techniques differ based on whether the client is an adult or a child under 3 years old.
2
Determine the correct anatomical maneuver to straighten the ear canal for this age group.
The pinna must be pulled upward and backward.
In adults, pulling the pinna upward and backward aligns the ear canal so that the medication can reach the affected area effectively.
3
Evaluate the other administration safety principles.
Medication should be room temperature and the client should be side-lying.
These steps prevent adverse vestibular reactions (vertigo) and ensure the medication remains in the ear.

Key Concept

Otic Medication Administration in Adults
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Topics

Pharmacological Therapies

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