Administering nose drops on oneself can be difficult. It is preferable to have someone else give the nose drops, which makes the procedure easier.

 

1.      Blow the nose gently and clear the nostrils. A bulb syringe may be used to clear the nostrils of an infant.

 

2.      Clean the outer nose with a damp tissue.

 

3.      Wash hands with soap and warm water and dry them.

 

4.      Lie down on the back on a bed. Let the head hang over the edge of the bed. Or a small pillow may be placed under the neck and shoulders to tilt back the head as far back as possible. An infant may be cradled in arms with the head tilted backwards.

 

5.      Shake the container with the nose drops gently.

 

6.      Examine the tip of the dropper to make sure that it is not chipped or cracked.

 

7.      Place in the tip of the dropper tip into a nostril so that 1/3 inch is inside. Try and ensure that the dropper tip does not touch the nose.

 

8.      Gently squeeze the dropper and put in the nostril the prescribed dose (number of drops), steadily administering one drop at a time.

 

9.      Remain in the lying position for at least five minutes.

 

10.Follow step 6 through 8 for the other nostril as well, unless advised otherwise.

 

11. Rinse the tip of the dropper with hot water and affix the cap back on the container.

12.Wash hands with soap and warm water.              

Written by: Healthplus24 team

Date last updated: April 20,2009