What technique should be used if you administer drops in both ears?

Waiting 5 minutes before switching sides after administering drops in one ear is important to ensure the medication has adequate time to be absorbed. This duration helps the solution permeate through the ear canal and reach the targeted area for effective treatment. If drops are applied to both ears without waiting, it could lead to decreased medication effectiveness, as the solution may not stay in contact with the tissues long enough to provide therapeutic benefits.

Utilizing a cotton ball in the first ear, for instance, could potentially impede the flow of drops and cause the medication to be retained in a way that may not be optimal for absorption. Similarly, waiting 10 minutes may be longer than required, which could lead to discomfort or an ineffective administration of medication. Directly applying drops to both ears without an interval does not allow for contextual absorption, diminishing the potential efficacy of the treatment. Therefore, waiting 5 minutes supports the best practices for medication administration in both ears, enhancing overall treatment outcomes.