After administering otic drops in one ear, how long should you wait before administering in the other ear?

After administering otic drops in one ear, how long should you wait before administering in the other ear?

• A. Wait 1 minute
• B. No wait
• C. Wait 2 minutes
• D. Wait at least 5 mins for other ear

Answer: (D)

Waiting at least five minutes after placing otic drops in one ear gives the medication time to stay in the ear canal and begin absorbing before you apply drops to the other ear. Keeping the head tilted or on its side helps the liquid settle and reduces drainage. If you wait only a minute or two or skip a wait, the first dose may run out or move into the second ear, wasting medication and increasing the chance of cross-contamination. Five minutes is the safe, effective interval to ensure the full dose is delivered to each ear.

Waiting at least five minutes after placing otic drops in one ear gives the medication time to stay in the ear canal and begin absorbing before you apply drops to the other ear. Keeping the head tilted or on its side helps the liquid settle and reduces drainage. If you wait only a minute or two or skip a wait, the first dose may run out or move into the second ear, wasting medication and increasing the chance of cross-contamination. Five minutes is the safe, effective interval to ensure the full dose is delivered to each ear.