Question

Zacharius is a 14-year-old male patient who has just returned from a week at summer camp. When his mother sees him, he is in obvious pain and points at his ear. The ear canal appears swollen and red. The mother takes him to the emergency. Otitis externa is diagnosed, and Zacharius is given a prescription for neomycin polymixin B hydrocortisone (Spor-HC Otic Suspension®).

What patient instruction will the nurse provide Zacharius and his mother regarding the application of the Cortisporin® eardrops?
Answer:
Rationale:

Zacharias asks the nurse when he will feel better and be able to start swimming again. How will the nurse respond?
Answer:
Rationale:

Answer 1

The following patient instruction to be provided by the nurse are

• Handwashing to prevent contamination
• Do not touch the tip per after opening doing so will cause infection
• Instil on the same time daily
• To be instilled by the mother for better results as self administration is difficult
• The ear to be instilled should be upper and instil drops by pulling the ear lobe upward and backward
• Lie on the same position for at least 5 minutes
• Shake the container before instilling
• Pre warm in hand
• The ear canal should be clean and dry before instilling medication
• Donot discontinue medication when feeling better and not to exceed more than 10 days

He will start feeling better from day 2 but a complete treatment and rest till 10 days are must. As it is called as swimmer's ear care has to be taken by wearing a head cap. He can start swimming after 10 days.