EAR LAVAGE

Purpose:

To clean the external ear of cerumen or a foreign body.

EAR IRRIGATION PROCEDURE

CROSS SECTION OF THE EAR

EAR LAVAGE

NORMAL TYMPANIC MEMBRANE

Basin for irrigation solution

60cc syringe with butterfly tubing, or ear lavage tip.

Ear basin or emesis basin for outflow.

ChuxOtoscopeUnsterile glovesOptional: goggles,

bayonet forceps for provider.

EQUIPMENT / SUPPLIES

Look at the orderIf no details use tap water

onlyOther possibilities which

need to be specified in the order may include-1/2 strength peroxide-Presoak with Debrox or Docusate Sodium.

Before you irrigate the ear with the solution, you must have pt confirm the temp (if pediatric pt, have parent confirm temp).

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

1. Wash your hands.2. Assemble the equipment and supplies.3. Greet and identify the patient.4. Explain the procedure.5. Have patient sit down.6. Drape patient with waterproof barrier.7. Using otoscope visualize ear canal and tympanic

membrane.

STEPS

INSPECT THE AFFECTED EAR WITH OTOSCOPE

8. Instruct patient or parent to hold basin under ear to be lavaged.

9. Fill emesis basin with warm water10. Put on gloves.11. Tilt the patient’s head toward the affected side.12. Fill the syringe.13. Gently position the auricle with the nondominant hand.14. With the dominant hand, place the tip of the syringe into the

auditory meatus, and direct the flow of solution toward the roof of the canal.

STEPS

16. Continue irrigation until returned solution is clear.17. Dry the patient’s external ear.18. Attempt to visualize tympanic membrane again with the

otoscope.19. Report to provider results of ear lavage before discharging

the patient.20. Document on patient record/EHR a brief description of

procedure and patient’s response.21. Properly care for or dispose of equipment and supplies.

Clean the work area. Wash your hands.

STEPS