An audit of people coming through the Special Hearing Clinic for people with learning disabilities in Derby showed that in excess of 60% of them had impacted ear wax. How do we address this?
Much of this wax was too hard to remove in a single session so olive oil was prescribed. At follow up, we frequently found that the oil had not been administered properly and consequently the wax was still too hard to remove. Questioning of carers showed that despite written instructions on how to use the oil, they frequently administered the oil drops whilst people were in a seated position. We therefore developed a photo instruction leaflet. Use of this leaflet has resulted in a dramatic improvement in effective olive oil administration. It is accessible to both clients and their carers.