Key Terms
Routes covered
Eyes, ears, nose, lungs, vagina, rectum
TREATED CONDITIONS
Allergies, sinus infections, nasal congestion
OD
Right eye OS: left eye OU: both eyes
PURPOSE
Remove foreign objects or wax buildup; minimize hearing loss risk
SOLUTION
Normal saline (standard); saline and hydrogen peroxide mixture also acceptable EQUIPMENT: 60 mL needleless syringe; OR s
INNER CANTHUS
Corner of eye nearest the nose (where upper and lower lids meet) OUTER CANTHUS: corner of eye nearest the ear (where upp
If second drop in same eye is needed
Wait 5 to 10 minutes between drops so first drop is not washed out
Also called
Otic, auricle medications
AD
Right ear AS: left ear AU: both ears
RISKS of ear irrigation
Ear infections, perforated eardrum, vertigo, hearing loss SIDE EFFECTS: dizziness, pain, nausea, ringing in the ears
Assess ear canal for
Foreign body, edema, infection signs, or ruptured eardrum
ABSORPTION ADVANTAGE
Lungs have large surface area with high blood flow; inhaled medications work FASTER than oral medications
NOTE
Vaginal medications CAN be used during menstruation
EFFECTS
Primarily respiratory; systemic effects also occur
ALL TYPES
Hand hygiene, gloves, rights of medication administration