You are administering an otic drop for an ear infection to a 12-year-old client. What is the proper method for otic drop instillation in this client?
Explanation & Rationale
A) Shake bottle well, pull ear outward and downward, instill drops: This method is typically used for younger children, such as infants or toddlers, as the ear canal in younger children is more horizontal. However, this is not the appropriate method for a 12-year-old. B) Shake bottle well, pull ear outward and upward, instill drops: This method is incorrect because the ear should be pulled outward and upward for a child under 3 years old, not for a 12-year-old. C) Warm bottle in hand, pull ear outward and upward, instill drops: This is the correct method for a 12-year-old client. The ear should be pulled outward and upward to straighten the ear canal, allowing the drops to reach the deeper parts of the ear. Additionally, warming the bottle in your hands prevents discomfort that might arise from cold drops being instilled in the ear. D) Warm bottle in hand, pull ear outward and downward, instill drops: This method is appropriate for children under 3 years old. For children older than 3 years, the ear should be pulled upward to open the ear canal.