What is the appropriate action when administering benzocaine ear drops to a toddler?

When administering benzocaine ear drops to a toddler, warming the refrigerated drops to room temperature is crucial because this helps ensure the child's comfort during the procedure. Cold drops can cause discomfort or pain when instilled in the ear, leading to a negative experience that may create anxiety about future treatments.

Warming the drops helps minimize the risk of causing any shock or discomfort to the sensitive ear structures, making the process smoother for both the child and the caregiver. Therefore, ensuring that the medication is at a comfortable temperature prior to administration is an essential nursing practice that can promote better patient compliance and a more positive healthcare experience.

The other methods, while related to ear drop administration, do not prioritize the comfort aspect as directly as warming the drops does. Hence, properly preparing the medication temperature is a fundamental step in the administration process.