Ace the Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) Exam 2025 – Leap into Your Nursing Adventure!

When administering ear drops to an infant, such as a 6-month-old with otitis media, the correct technique involves pulling the ear down and back. This method is appropriate for young children because their ear canal is shorter and positioned differently than in adults. Pulling the ear down and back helps to straighten the ear canal, allowing for optimal delivery of the medication deep into the ear. This positioning also minimizes discomfort and ensures that the drops reach the target area effectively.

In contrast, the other methods would not provide the same level of accessibility and comfort for infants. Pulling the ear up and back is typically used for older children and adults, while pulling the ear down and forward is incorrect for this age group. Using the incorrect technique can lead to ineffective delivery of the medication and may cause discomfort or resistance from the child during the process. Therefore, using the down and back technique is essential for proper ear drop administration in a 6-month-old.