A nurse is administering ear drops to a toddler and pulls the auricle down and back. The mother asks, "Why are you pulling the ear that way?" Which of the following explanations should the the nurse provide?

Rationale: A. While it may be safe and effective, this explanation does not address why the auricle is pulled in that specific direction. B. The technique may or may not reduce pain; this is not the primary reason for pulling the auricle down and back. C. The direction of the auricle does not prevent medication from running out; proper positioning of the child helps with retention. D. Pulling the auricle down and back in a toddler straightens the ear canal, allowing the medication to flow to the appropriate area in the outer and middle ear.