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HOW TO INSTILL EAR DROPS

How to Instill Ear Drops

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

How do I instill ear drops? Read the instructions carefully before you use ear drops. Store ear drops at room temperature and away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not use ear drops if they change color or turn cloudy. Do not use them if they have small bits floating in them. Wash your hands before and after you instill ear drops.

  • Warm the drops by holding the bottle in your hands for a few minutes.

  • Gently shake the bottle.

  • Do not touch the tip of the bottle to your ear. Germs from your ear can spread to the medicine bottle if your ear touches the tip.

  • Lie down or tilt your head to one side.

  • Gently pull and hold your ear up and back. If you are putting ear drops in your child's ear, gently pull and hold his ear down and back.

  • Gently squeeze the bottle to drop the correct number of drops into your ear.

  • Replace the cap on the bottle.

  • Press on your ear flap and keep your head tilted for several minutes to give the medicine time to coat your ear.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

  • You have changes in your hearing, such as ringing in your ears.

  • Your ear itches, stings, or burns.

  • You have a rash in or around your ear.

  • You are dizzy.

  • You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.