A nurse is preparing to administer ear drops to a client due to cerumen accumulation. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale: A. The client should remain in a position that allows the medication to stay in the ear canal—typically lying on the opposite side with the affected ear upward during administration, and remaining in that position for about 2–5 minutes after instillation. However, “supine” positioning is not required or optimal, making this statement inaccurate. B. Cotton-tipped applicators should not be inserted into the inner ear canal because they can push cerumen further in, cause trauma, or damage the tympanic membrane. Only the external ear may be gently cleaned if needed. C. Ear drops should be warmed to room temperature by holding the bottle in the hands for a few minutes. Cold drops can cause dizziness, vertigo, and discomfort due to stimulation of the vestibular system. Proper temperature improves comfort and safety during administration. D. A cotton ball may be placed loosely at the outer ear (not inserted into the canal) if recommended, but it should not be pushed into the inner ear canal. Inserting it deeply can block medication absorption and increase risk of impaction or injury.