Inserting Eardrops Safely

How to insert eardrops safely

To insert eardrops:

First, warm the drops to body temperature by rolling the container in your hands or placing it in your armpit for a few minutes. Inserting cold eardrops can cause ear pain and dizziness.
Have the child lie down, with the affected ear facing up.
Place drops on the wall of the ear canal in small amounts so air can escape and drops can get into the ear. Gently moving the outer ear will help the drops move down into the ear.
You may find it easier to insert eardrops in a small child's ear by holding the child on your lap with the child's legs around your waist and his or her head down on your knees.

Credits

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Revised	September 10, 2012

By:

Healthwise Staff

Last Revised: September 10, 2012

Medical Review:

Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.