Babies have delicate ear canals and inner ear systems that might not be fully developed. These forming systems can trap fluid and bacteria, leading to a painful ear infection. If this happens to your child, you'll need to administer prescription antibiotic ear drops to get rid of the infection and protect normal ear function and development. Getting the drops into your child's ear is part art and part science. You'll need to keep her still and on her side, which is no easy task when she's hurting and irritable.
Step 1
Swaddle your baby tightly in a blanket. Wrap the blanket over the baby's legs and arms to prevent wiggling and squirming.
Step 2
Prepare a comfortable area where you can sit and also hold the baby on his side. Place pillows down on the couch or bed, or place him in his crib. Make sure you have both hands free to administer the drops. Lay down a towel if you think you'll spill the drops or if you have to put drops in both ears.
Step 3
Position the baby on his side with the infected ear facing upward. Silt his head slightly back. Take the cap off of the ear drops.
Step 4
Pull his ear lobe down and back gently to position the ear's opening over the ear canal.
Step 5
Add the prescribed amount of drops to the ear and let go of the ear lobe. Let the drops work their way into the ear for a few minutes before turning the child over to treat the other ear.
