What is the correct positioning for an 18-month-old patient receiving ear drops in the right ear?

When administering ear drops to an 18-month-old patient, it is essential to ensure proper positioning for the medication to be effective and to minimize discomfort. The correct method involves positioning the right ear facing up. This allows gravity to assist in the flow of the drops into the ear canal effectively.

Additionally, pulling the earlobe down and back is crucial for this age group, as it helps straighten the ear canal, making it easier for the drops to reach their intended destination. The anatomy of a child’s ear differs from that of adults, so this technique accommodates their developmental stage, ensuring the medication is delivered effectively.

The other positioning options would not provide the optimal conditions for administering ear drops. For instance, tilting the head in other directions or having the left ear facing up would not effectively deliver the medication to the right ear. Sitting upright could lead to the drops not entering the ear canal properly, as gravity would not facilitate their passage. Therefore, positioning with the right ear facing up and the earlobe pulled down and back is the most suitable method for administering ear drops to a young child.