Gain the required skills

This ear irrigation training is aimed at registered nurses and carers providing ear care to service users.

Importantly, the course will teach basic ear care and how to irrigate the ear confidently and safely.

If you have already completed a practical session and are looking for a refresher, please click here.

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Course Summary

Anatomy and physiology
How to examine the ear
Common ear problems & foreign bodies
Complications
Risk assessing
Infection control
Documentation and record keeping
Ear irrigation (syringing)
Practical session

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FAQs

Ear Irrigation Training FAQs

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Where Do You Deliver The Ear Irrigation Training?

We can deliver this training at your premises, as long as it's within the UK. Also, wehave our own venues in the Midlands if you don't have access to a training room. In addition, we are able to deliver this training virtually using Zoom (Zoom sessions for this course will only be available for Theory only sessions)

Do You Sell The Ear Irrigation Equipment?

Yes, we do, we have put together an all-in-one starter kit that includes everything you need to start your new ear irrigation service.

Can I Set Up My Own Service And Offer Ear Irrigation Privately?

That depends, CQC have guidance which be be found by clicking here. Caring For Care will not be held liable for delegates not checking this guidance before booking.

Ear Irrigation Training (Ear Syringing Course)

Our Ear Irrigation training (also called ear syringing course) is designed to teach healthcare professionals the proper techniques for safely and effectively performing ear irrigation.

Ear irrigation is a common procedure used to remove earwax and other foreign objects from the ear canal.

It is a quick and non-invasive way to improve ear hygiene and alleviate discomfort.

During our training, you will learn how to properly prepare for an ear irrigation procedure, how to use ear irrigation equipment, and how to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

Furthermore, our experienced instructors will provide hands-on training to ensure that you feel confident and competent in your ability to perform ear irrigation.

Upon completion of our course, you will receive a certificate of completion that you can add to your professional portfolio.

We use the propulse ear irrigation machine for the course.

If you have already completed a practical session and are looking for a refresher, please click here.

Course Duration: 4- 6 hours
Course Level: Level 3
Certificate: 1-year certificate
Max Delegates: 12
Practical: Yes
Course Mode: Face to Face/Online

Do I need a formal qualification to perform ear wax removal for people in the UK?

There are no formal legal requirements for specific qualifications to perform ear wax cleaning in the UK.

However, it is recommended that ear irrigation is only carried out by:

Healthcare professionals – Such as nurses, doctors, audiologists or other clinical staff with training in ear care and irrigation methods.
Trained carers – Caregivers who have received formal training and certification in ear irrigation through accredited courses.
Community clinics – Clinics offering ear irrigation should have appropriately qualified clinical personnel performing or supervising the procedures.

While formal medical qualifications are not mandated, proper ear wax removal training, knowledge of irrigation equipment, anatomical risks, infection control and clinical guidelines are essential to perform ear irrigation safely and effectively.

Carrying out irrigation without adequate skills and technique risks pain, injury and complications for patients. Seeking irrigation from untrained individuals is not advisable.

For public health and safety, professional bodies advise ear irrigation only be performed in clinical settings or by trained home carers.

Appropriate ear wax removal qualifications, even if not legally required, help ensure proper standards.

Ear Irrigation Course Summary

The Ear Irrigation course helps people learn how to clean ears safely and effectively. In the course, participants will discover the different parts of the ear and how they work.

They will also learn how to examine the ear using a special tool called an otoscope. Participants will understand common ear problems and what to do if something gets stuck in the ear.

The course teaches about the risks involved and how to keep things clean and germ-free.

Participants will also learn how to write down important information.

The course includes practical sessions where participants get to practice cleaning ears using a special tool. By the end of the course, participants will feel more confident in their ability to clean ears properly and keep people comfortable and safe.

We also sell a range of propulse equipment and consumables, including an all-in-one starter kit.

Course Outline: Ear Irrigation Course (Ear Syringing Course)

1. Anatomy and Physiology:

In the context of ear irrigation training, understanding the anatomy and physiology of the ear is crucial for performing the procedure safely and effectively. This includes knowledge of the delicate structures of the ear, such as the tympanic membrane (eardrum), the ossicles (tiny bones in the middle ear), and the auditory nerve.

Overview of the structure of the ear
Functions of the ear
Common ear problems

2. How to Examine the Ear:

Otoscopy, the technique of examining the ear canal using an otoscope, is an essential skill for ear irrigation practitioners. Through otoscopy, healthcare professionals can identify common ear abnormalities, such as earwax blockages, foreign bodies, ear infections, and perforations of the eardrum.

Otoscopy (examining the ear canal)
Using a pneumatic otoscope
Identifying common ear abnormalities

3. Common Ear Problems & Foreign Bodies:

Familiarity with common ear problems and foreign bodies is essential for ear irrigation practitioners. This includes understanding the signs, symptoms, and potential complications of earwax blockages, foreign bodies in the ear, ear infections, and ear trauma. In our ear irrigation course, you will learn:

Earwax blockages
Foreign bodies in the ear
Ear infections
Ear trauma

4. Complications of Ear Irrigation:

Ear irrigation, while a relatively straightforward procedure, carries potential risks. Understanding these risks, such as tympanic membrane perforation, infection, tinnitus, and hearing loss, is important for risk assessment and patient safety.

Perforation of the tympanic membrane (eardrum)
Infection
Tinnitus
Hearing loss

5. Risk Assessing:

Risk assessment is an integral part of ear irrigation training. This involves evaluating the patient’s medical history, ear examination findings, and individual factors to determine the suitability of ear irrigation and identify potential risks.

Medical history
Ear examination
Patient factors

6. Infection Control:

Participants will understand the importance of infection control in ear irrigation procedures. They will learn about proper hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment, and the sterilization and cleaning of equipment.

Hand hygiene
Equipment disinfection
Asepsis

7. Documentation and Record Keeping:

This section emphasizes the significance of accurate documentation and record keeping in ear irrigation. Participants will learn how to maintain comprehensive and detailed records of the procedure, patient information, and any adverse events.

Documentation of ear irrigation procedures
Record keeping

8. Ear Irrigation (Syringing):

Participants will learn the technique of ear irrigation using a syringe. They will understand the procedure’s steps, including preparing the equipment, positioning the patient, and performing the irrigation safely and effectively.

Indications for ear irrigation
Contraindications for ear irrigation
Equipment and supplies
Technique for ear irrigation
Post-procedure care

9. Practical Session:

Participant will have the opportunity to practice ear irrigation on human-like manikins under the supervision of an experienced instructor.

In addition to mastering ear irrigation techniques, participants will gain essential skills in patient communication, creating a comfortable and safe environment, and upholding patient dignity and privacy throughout the procedure. This course aims to empower participants to perform ear irrigation with carefully and with safety.

Learning Outcome

After completing the Ear Irrigation Training (Ear Wax removal training), you’ll:

Understand the ear’s workings and parts.
Use an otoscope to examine the ear and detect common issues or foreign objects.
Handle complications during ear irrigation.
Assess risks and take safety measures.
Ensure cleanliness to prevent infections.
Accurately document the ear cleaning procedure.
Use a syringe correctly.
Communicate effectively with patients.
Gain hands-on skills.
Provide patient-centered care with respect for dignity, privacy, and safety.
Safely and effectively perform ear irrigation for healthy ears and patient satisfaction.

Target Audience

This course is designed for healthcare professionals who are involved in the care of patients with ear problems. This includes:

General practitioners
Nurses
Carers

Course Information

Who Will Conduct The Training?

One of our expert clinical tutors, these are either Nurses or Doctors with an abundance of clinical and complex care experience and knowledge – so you’ll be in great hands!

Furthermore, we will let you know who is doing the training in advance, you can check out their skills and experience by finding them on our meet the team page.

You can take a look at the profile of our trainers here.

What are the benefits of attending a proper ear syringing training?

Here are some of the main benefits of attending an ear syringing training course:

Learn proper method – Hands-on training teaches the safest and best ways to do ear lavage to successfully remove wax.
Reduce risks – Understand the ear’s structure and possible issues to avoid patient injury during syringing.
Gain practical skills – Develop confidence using the equipment through practice and simulations.
Improve patient results – Good training leads to more complete wax removal and improved hearing.
Ensure patient safety – Coursework covers infection control, PPE use, proper patient positioning and consent.
Follow current best practices – Keep up-to-date on clinical guidelines and new innovations for ear care.
Earn certificates – Complete training to validate your skills and meet legal/employer requirements.
Increase job opportunities – Expand your scope of practice by adding an in-demand clinical skill.
Networking – Interact with and learn from experienced ear care professionals.

Getting high-quality instruction will equip you with the expertise to properly clear ear blockages, improve comfort, and avoid damage – safely and efficiently.

How Many Delegates Can I Have On One Session?

We will deliver this training for a group of up to 12 delegates. Similarly, for larger groups we can either provide multiple trainers on the same day or run multiple days to get everyone trained.

Course Duration

The Ear Irrigation Training course takes about 4 to 6 hours to complete. It’s a course where you will learn important things about cleaning ears. You will have enough time to understand how to do it right and practice doing it yourself. The course includes both talking about it and trying it out with the help of our friendly instructors.

Will Attending This Training Make Me Competent?

In short, no. No classroom-based training course can give you full competency – be very wary of anyone claiming they can.

However, our classroom-based assessments are designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace competency, we will provide you with the relevant workbooks and competency pro-formas to be observed and signed off within the workplace according to your local policy.

We have put together this handy blog and video content to explain how this works .

What is Ear Wax Removal Training?

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is made naturally in the ear canal to protect, clean and lubricate the ears.

But too much ear wax build up can lead to blockage, pain, ringing, dizziness and hearing loss. Safe and effective ear wax removal is an important clinical skill.

Formal training for ear wax removal includes:

Anatomy and Physiology – Understanding the anatomy of the outer and inner ear and the natural process of cerumen production.
Assessment – Learning how to examine the ear canal and eardrum with an otoscope and spot wax build up or other abnormalities.
Risk Factors – Recognising conditions, injuries or obstructions that increase risk with ear wax removal. Identifying contraindications.
Patient Communication – Explaining the procedure to patients and obtaining informed consent. Answering questions or worries.
Irrigation Technique – Proper technique for safe and effective ear syringing using specialised equipment like ear syringes, speculums and fluid sources.
Medications and Pre-Treatment – Knowledge of chemical agents like hydrogen peroxide or mineral oil to soften severe blockages when needed.
Complications and Emergencies – Recognising and responding to rare complications like pain, vertigo or ear drum damage. Stopping procedures and referring appropriately.
Infection Control – Following clinical guidelines for cleaning equipment and hand hygiene to prevent infectious spread.
Documentation – Recording details of the wax removal treatment and patient response in medical records.

Proper training provides clinicians with the competency to perform skilled ear wax removal safely and improve hearing outcomes.

Questions and Answers

1. What qualifications do you need to syringe ears?

To syringe ears professionally, you typically need to be a qualified healthcare professional, such as a nurse or a general practitioner (GP).

They have the necessary training and experience to safely perform ear irrigation.

2. How do you become a professional ear wax removal?

To become a professional in ear wax removal, you typically need to pursue a career in healthcare. This might involve training as a nurse, audiologist, or ENT specialist (ear, nose, and throat doctor). These professionals have the skills and knowledge required for safe and effective ear wax removal.

3. Can anyone train to do ear wax removal?

No, not just anyone can train to perform ear wax removal professionally. It generally requires healthcare-related qualifications and specific training to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals seeking ear wax removal services.

Proper training and qualifications are typically required to ensure safe and effective ear wax removal. Healthcare professionals like nurses, audiologists, or ENT specialists usually receive specific training to perform this procedure safely. You can see various our ear irrigation equipment to buy after training and start practicing.

4. Do you have to be qualified to remove ear wax?

Yes, it’s important to be qualified to remove ear wax professionally. Qualified healthcare professionals have the necessary expertise to assess and perform safe ear wax removal procedures, reducing the risk of injury or complications.

Attempting to remove ear wax without proper training can be unsafe and should be avoided. You can check all our ear irrigation products in the shop page.

5. What is a professional ear wax removal called?

A professional ear wax removal is often called “ear irrigation” or “ear syringing.” It’s a procedure performed by qualified healthcare professionals to safely and effectively remove excess ear wax from the ear canal. This helps individuals with earwax blockages or build-up regain their hearing and alleviate discomfort.

6. Can anyone train to do microsuction?

Microsuction for ear wax removal requires specific training and expertise. While it may be open to certain healthcare professionals, it’s not something that anyone can train for without the appropriate qualifications. Training in microsuction typically involves learning how to use special ear wax equipment to safely and precisely remove ear wax from the ear canal.

7. What is the purpose of ear irrigation training for nurses?

Ear irrigation training for nurses equips them with the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively remove earwax blockages, a common ear problem that can cause hearing loss, earache, and tinnitus.

8. What are the benefits of ear irrigation training for nurses?

Ear irrigation training for nurses provides several benefits:

Improved patient care: Nurses with ear irrigation training can provide timely and effective treatment for earwax blockages, improving patient comfort and hearing.
Enhanced skills and confidence: Nurses gain hands-on experience and confidence in performing ear irrigation, ensuring they can provide this essential service to their patients.
Reduced risk of complications: Proper training helps nurses minimise the risk of complications associated with ear irrigation, such as tympanic membrane perforation and infection.

9. Find the nearest ear wax removal training near you?

We offer ear wax removal training at various locations across the UK, including:

Stoke-on-Trent
London
Swindon
Epsom
York
Warrington

Each locations have their dates and times for the training.

In addition to face-to-face training, we also offer training via online, providing flexibility for carers and nurses who may not be able to attend an in-person course.

Our online ear irrigation training sessions are designed to be interactive and engaging, allowing nurses to gain the same level of knowledge and skills as they would in a traditional classroom setting. Contact our course advisors to book the next ear irrigation training.

10. How to become a ear wax removal specialist?

Here are some tips on how to become an ear wax removal specialist:

Get formal training – Take an accredited course in ear syringing and wax removal. This will teach you proper methods, safety, anatomy and patient care. Hands-on practice is key.
Shadow professionals – Spend time watching experienced ear care nurses or audiologists doing wax removal. This will build skills.
Get equipment – Obtain necessary tools like ear scopes, irrigation systems, nozzles, and wax softening drops. Ensure proper set up.
Know the guidelines – Review best practices for ear care from trusted sources. Follow clinical standards.
Consider certification – Optional certification in cerumen management shows competency. Some areas may require it.
Develop patient rapport – Work on communication skills to explain procedures, set expectations, and keep patients comfortable.
Promote your services – Tell primary care doctors who can refer patients. Reach out to the community.
Stay updated – Regularly review the latest techniques and research to provide best quality care.
Document safety – Keep detailed records showing low complication rates to establish credibility.
Get supervised experience – Have a doctor oversee initial procedures to ensure proper technique.

With dedication to continuous learning and practice of your ear syringing skills, you can become a specialist known for safe, effective wax removal and hearing improvement.

Had a great full day of training, we completed the Ear Irrigation course with John Starr. Two of us travelled from Northern Ireland to London for this training. John was brilliant, he kept the whole training session very interesting and was very informative! We had lots of theory before doing the hands-on training in the afternoon. Really enjoyed it and feel confident leaving the training. Many thanks for all your help John! Highly recommend ☺️

Ear Irrigation Training