The healthcare provider prescribed ear drops for a 5-year-old girl with otitis externa. Which technique should the practical nurse (PN) advise the mother to use when administering the ear drops?

A. Remove ear wax from the device's surface: Cleaning visible ear wax from the hearing aid prevents blockage of sound and maintains device function. The UAP should use a soft, dry cloth or brush to gently remove debris without using liquids or inserting objects into the device.

B. Keep the battery door closed during storage: The battery door should remain open when not in use to preserve battery life and prevent moisture buildup. Keeping it closed may cause corrosion or battery drainage.

C. Store the device on window sill to prevent loss: Placing the device on a window sill exposes it to sunlight and temperature fluctuations, which can damage internal components. The hearing aid should be stored in a dry, safe, and designated location.

D. Observe and report any ear drainage after removing the device: Ear drainage may indicate infection, irritation, or injury caused by the hearing aid. Reporting this promptly allows timely evaluation and prevents complications or worsening of ear conditions.

E. Verify that the device is labeled with client's identification: Labeling ensures the correct device is returned to the right resident, preventing mix-ups in shared living facilities where many residents use similar hearing aids.

A. Providing healthcare information by report to the client's physical therapist: Sharing relevant medical information with members of the healthcare team involved in the client’s care is appropriate and complies with HIPAA regulations.

B. Informing clergy that a church member has been admitted to the facility: Many facilities allow disclosure to clergy with client consent or if the client has requested spiritual support. However, confidentiality must always be maintained, and identifying details should only be shared as permitted by policy.

C. Posting client names and healthcare providers on hospital room doors: Displaying personal health information publicly violates the client’s right to confidentiality under HIPAA. Such postings can expose sensitive details to unauthorized individuals and must be avoided to protect client privacy.

D. Requesting clients to sign their name on a roster at the front desk: This is generally acceptable for administrative purposes such as registration or appointment confirmation, as long as no medical details are visible to others. The practice should still ensure compliance with facility privacy standards.