What should a nurse always do to ensure the correct delivery of ear drops?

Warming the ear drops before administration is essential because it helps minimize discomfort for the patient. Cold drops can cause dizziness or a sensation of vertigo when introduced into the ear canal, as the temperature change can affect the vestibular system. By warming the drops to body temperature—typically by holding the bottle in your hand for a few minutes—the nurse can ensure a more comfortable experience for the patient, which can lead to better cooperation and adherence to the treatment.

Additionally, warming the drops may enhance the therapeutic effect, as it can facilitate better absorption and distribution within the ear. Ensuring comfort is crucial in the nursing process, especially in sensitive procedures such as administering ear drops.

Other considerations, while important, do not contribute as directly to the comfort and effectiveness of the medication as warming the drops does. For instance, ensuring the correct angle during administration is important for effective delivery, but it won’t mitigate discomfort caused by temperature.