Demonstrate administration of aural medications.

Demonstration should include

  • verifying patient identification and rechecking drug labels
  • describing how to administer medication without contamination
    • ear pinna held upright
    • massaging the base of the outside of the ear canal
    • wiping any solution that may have leaked onto the outside of the ear flap or hair

  • explaining the importance of understanding drugs that may pose an exposure risk to humans if absorbed through the skin.

Process/Skill Questions:

  • How is it possible to get a thick topical medication out of a jar without contaminating the contents of the jar?
  • What problems arise when applying topical medications to an area the animal can reach by grooming itself? What could be done to prevent these problems?
  • What are the five rights to consider before administering any type of medication to a patient? 

Teacher Resource: