Answer
Feb 12, 2025 - 10:53 AM
An ear wick is a small, compressed sponge or gauze strip used to deliver medication deep into the ear canal when it is swollen due to severe otitis externa (ear canal infection).
Materials Needed:
✔️ Sterile ear wick (e.g., Pope wick or compressed sponge wick)
✔️ Topical antibiotic or antifungal drops (e.g., ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone, clotrimazole)
✔️ Sterile forceps
✔️ Ear speculum (optional)
✔️ Gloves and antiseptic wipes
1. Prepare the Patient
- Explain the procedure to the patient.
- Have the patient lie on their side or tilt their head with the affected ear facing up.
- Clean the outer ear gently with an antiseptic wipe (do not insert cotton swabs).
2. Moisten the Ear Wick
- Soak the ear wick in the prescribed antibiotic, antifungal, or steroid ear drops to soften it.
- This helps with insertion and reduces discomfort.
3. Insert the Ear Wick
- Using sterile forceps, carefully insert the moistened ear wick into the ear canal.
- Insert slowly and gently until it reaches the swollen part of the ear canal.
- The wick will expand and allow medication to reach deep into the canal.
4. Apply Additional Medication
- Once in place, add more ear drops onto the wick until it is saturated.
- The patient should continue applying drops as prescribed (usually every 4–6 hours).
5. Aftercare & Removal
- The ear wick usually falls out on its own within 48–72 hours as swelling decreases.
- If not, it can be removed by a healthcare provider using sterile forceps.
- Advise the patient to avoid getting water in the ear (e.g., no swimming or showering without ear protection).
