What action should a charge nurse intervene on while observing a newly licensed nurse irrigating a client’s ear?

Instilling 50mL of fluid with each irrigation is the action that a charge nurse should intervene on because it exceeds the recommended volume for ear irrigation. Typically, the amount of fluid used for ear irrigation is considerably less, often around 20mL or as indicated by clinical protocols to avoid complications such as overdistension or trauma to the ear canal and tympanic membrane.

Using an excessively large volume, such as 50mL, could potentially lead to an increased risk of injury or perforation of the tympanic membrane, as well as discomfort for the patient. Furthermore, proper techniques advise maintaining a balance that ensures effective irrigation while safeguarding the patient's ear health. Therefore, it is crucial for nurses, especially those newly licensed, to adhere closely to established guidelines regarding the safe and effective volume of fluid for ear irrigation.