Ear lavage is performed to remove impacted cerumen (earwax) to improve hearing, relieve discomfort, and allow proper visualization of the ear canal and tympanic membrane. You’re primary function with this procedure would be the prep work and clean-up. Be sure to see how it's done in case the provider is busy and needs assistance. 

 

📚 Resources Needed

  • Besa EHR
  • Stainless Steel Tray
  • Ear drops (cerumen softener)
  • Ear wash / irrigation device
  • Warm water (mixed hot + cold; slightly warm/hot, not cold)
  • Chucks (protective pad)
  • Ear cleaner basin / collection container
  • Non-sterile gauze
  • Curette
  • Gloves

 

🚀 Tips & Tricks

  • Ear drops must sit for at least 10 minutes before irrigation
     
  • Water temperature matters:
    • Too cold → dizziness
    • Too hot → injury
    • Aim for warm (slightly on the hotter side, but safe)
       
  • Always protect patient clothing with chucks
     
  • Be gentle—this is a high-discomfort procedure if done poorly
     
  • Some patients may require manual removal with curette after irrigation
     
  • Always clean the room and materials used right after


📘 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Identify Need for Ear Lavage

  • Confirm reason in appointment.
  • Common reasons:
    • Impacted cerumen
    • Hearing loss
    • Ear fullness


2. Prepare Supplies

Set up:

  • Ear drops
  • Irrigation device + warm water
  • Curette
  • Gauze
  • Chucks
  • Collection basin


3. Set Up Procedure Tray

  • Place all supplies on stainless steel tray
  • Add sticky note with patient’s first name
  • Ensure everything is within reach before starting


4. Patient Preparation

  • Have patient seated upright
  • Place chucks over shoulder/chest area
  • The cleaner has an attached basin 
  • Explain procedure briefly (pressure, noise, possible dizziness)


5. Apply Ear Drops

  • Instill ear drops into affected ear
  • Allow to sit for 10 minutes
  • Do not rush this step—this softens wax and improves success


6. Perform Ear Irrigation

  • Fill device with warm water
  • Gently irrigate ear canal:
    • Aim along ear canal wall (not directly at eardrum)
    • Use steady, controlled pressure
  • Allow water + wax to drain into basin


7. Assess & Repeat if Needed

  • Check if cerumen is cleared
  • Repeat irrigation if necessary
  • If remaining wax is present:
    • Use curette carefully for manual removal (if trained/allowed)


8. Post-Procedure Care

  • Dry outer ear with gauze
  • Ensure patient is stable (watch for dizziness)
  • Inform provider when complete


9. Room Turnover

  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Clean and disinfect all surfaces
  • Reset room for next patient


⚠️ Critical Reminders

  • Never use cold water → causes vertigo
  • Do not apply excessive pressure during irrigation
  • Stop immediately if patient has:
    • Pain
    • Severe dizziness
    • Bleeding
  • Curette use requires care and proper technique
  • Always keep patient clean and dry throughout procedure


📞 Support

If you’re unsure about technique or patient response, stop and notify the provider immediately.