Medical Assistant Prep / Unit 14 MAS 345 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Ear Irrigation
The idea
Ear irrigation flushes earwax or foreign material from the outer ear canal, and it is performed only when ordered and as the practice's policy allows.
In practice
Step one: confirm the order and the patient's identity, and explain the procedure. Step two: prepare the solution the order specifies; normal saline at room temperature is typical. Step three: draw it into the irrigating device, often a large needleless syringe. Step four: have the patient hold a basin under the ear to catch the returning fluid. Step five: gently straighten the canal and irrigate as trained. Step six: during and after the irrigation, watch for dizziness, nausea or pain, and stop and report if any occur.
Where people slip
Ear problems that involve the eardrum change what is safe. Follow the provider's order exactly, and ask before irrigating if anything about the ear concerns you.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Something wrong in this lesson? Flag it · Sources for Medical Assistant Prep