How should parents administer antibiotic eardrops to an infant with acute otitis media?

Administering antibiotic eardrops to an infant requires proper technique to ensure the medication is delivered effectively and to help maximize its benefits. When parents massage the anterior area of the infant's ear following administration, it promotes the distribution of the eardrops in the ear canal. This action can help facilitate the absorption of the medication and ensure it reaches the affected areas, enhancing its therapeutic effect.

This practice is particularly important for infants, as their ear canals are not fully developed, and the angle may differ from that of older children or adults. Gently massaging the area can help prevent the drops from pooling and assist in moving the medication deeper into the ear.

In contrast, while tilting the child’s head backwards or securing the child in a horizontal position may seem beneficial, they do not effectively support the intended action of the drops after administration. Additionally, placing the baby in a sitting position might not provide the optimal angle for the medication to travel down the ear canal, which is why these methods may not be the most effective choices.