How to Apply Eardrops

A doctor will sometimes prescribe medicated ear drops to treat an ear infection. Some ear drops are also available over the counter. Before using any medication, check the expiration date and do not use it if it is expired. Read all labels carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain anything you do not understand.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Mirror
• Tissue

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands well using hot water and soap.

• 2

  Look for a label on the medication that says something like "Shake before use." If you see this, gently shake the bottle.

• 3

  Unscrew the dropper, which is part of the lid of the bottle, and draw medication into the dropper. Never allow the dropper to touch any unsterilized surface.

• 4

  Lie on your left side to administer drops to your right ear, and vice versa.

• 5

  Position the dropper so that it hovers just over the opening of your ear.

• 6

  Squeeze the dropper slowly until the prescribed number of ear drops have fallen into your ear. Only use the prescribed number of drops. Use a tissue to wipe up any medication that has spilled outside of your ear.

• 7

  Keep your head tilted or remain lying down for five minutes. This helps the medication stay in place.

• 8

  Press gently on the skin flap in the middle of your ear so that it covers the ear opening. Repeat this procedure for the other ear, if needed.