A practical nurse is preparing to administer prescribed otic drops to an adult client diagnosed with otitis externa. Arrange the following actions for administering this medication in the correct chronological sequence.
- 1Position the client laterally with the affected ear directed upward.
- 2Straighten the auditory canal by gently pulling the pinna upward and backward.
- 3Instill the prescribed medication drops without letting the dropper touch the ear.
- 4Apply gentle pressure to the tragus of the ear multiple times.
- 5Instruct the client to remain in the lateral position for 3 to 5 minutes.
Answer
The correct sequence is: Position the client laterally, straighten the auditory canal by pulling the pinna upward and backward, instill the drops, apply gentle pressure to the tragus, and instruct the client to remain in the lateral position.
The correct chronological sequence ensures patient safety, anatomical alignment, and maximum medication efficacy. First, positioning the client uses gravity to direct the drops. Second, pulling the adult pinna upward and backward properly straightens the naturally curved ear canal. Third, instilling the drops while avoiding physical contact maintains sterility. Fourth, pressing the tragus actively moves the fluid inward toward the tympanic membrane. Finally, having the client remain in position prevents the medication from prematurely leaking out of the ear.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Administration of Otic Medications in Adults