Resolve Otitis Externa Fast with an Ear Wick

​Emergency providers expeditiously sift and sort patients on their shifts and streamline procedures like how to place an ear wick in a patient with otitis externa, a quick and useful procedure for a patient who will reap the rewards.Standard ear wicks. The material is made from a dehydrated sponge composed of hydroxylated poly(vinyl acetate). It increases in size when liquid is applied. Photo by M. Roberts.Otitis externa can cause significant swelling, irritation, pruritis, and pain to the ear canal. Occasionally, the canal is so swollen it may be difficult to administer ear drops. An ear wick can be inserted between the swollen canal walls to help instill medication and keep the medication around longer to assist with healing.An ear wick is hard when you place it in the ear, and it softens and expands as soon as it is moistened. It can be used for several days, and an additional one can be inserted by the patient if it falls out. It should be noted that additional bacteria can penetrate ear wicks, but this can be prevented by continuous application of antibacterial ear drops. Ear wicks need priming with six drops of the antibiotic before starting an at-home regimen so the initial dose is fully absorbed. (J Laryngol Otol. 2017;131[9]:809.)Causes of Otitis ExternaBacteria, fungal, or viral infectionWater in the ear from swimming or poor drainageScratch or cut in the canal, digital traumaChemicals like shampoo, hairspray or gel, makeup or creamsSweat and warm weatherPatie...
Source: The Procedural Pause - Category: Emergency Medicine Tags: Blog Posts Source Type: blogs