How to Administer Ear Drops to Children

Applying ear drops to children is much easier if your child is aware of what is going to happen, and involved in the process.

There are many reasons you may need to give your child ear drops, from treating ear infections to preventing motion sickness. Ear drops are a very effective way to administer medication, provided they are administered properly. If used incorrectly, you won't get enough drops in the ear canal, and the medicine may be less effective. While most adults can easily administer their own drops, applying them to children can be difficult, and requires a different process.

Instructions

1. Wash your hands, and make sure they are completely dry. Encourage your child to do the same.

2. Shake the ear drops to mix the medication. This is especially important if the formula looks cloudy.

3. Encourage your child to warm the drops by rubbing the bottle in his hands. This will make your child feel more involved with the process, and will also make the ear drops warmer when you administer them.

4. Lie your child down, or ask her to tilt her head to one side. Depending on her age and size, you may find one position easier than the other.

5. Gently hold the earlobe down and back. Make sure your child is comfortable.

6. Squeeze the drops into the ear. Do not squeeze too hard, and ensure the drops fall into the ear canal, not onto the earlobe.

7. Gently press on the ear flap to "seal" the ear for a few seconds. You could also use a cotton plug.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not allow the ear drop applicator to touch anything to ensure it remains free from infection.

References

• "Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child: A Practical A-to-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Infants and Children"; Janet Zand; 1994.
• "The Portable Pediatrician: Everything You Need to Know about Your Child's Health"; William Sears; 2010.
• "A Guide to Child Health"; Michaela Glockler; 2007.