Infected Eye & Ear

We discovered one of our Cuckoo Morans (ear) and one of our Rhode Isld Reds (eye) with what seems to be coagulated yellow puss in the ear & eye...both very enlarged/swollen.

After using warm,wet compresses, we squeezed & gently extracted the gook from the ear.  The process took repeated attempts because there was so much to remove & left a hole in the ear about the size of a nickel & 1/2" deep.  Area around ear was red and tender to the touch.

The eye was not so large but did leave a hole. Because we had no other medication to apply to the areas, we sprinkled on a granulated antiobiotic that we sometimes use in their drinking water.  (Vet & pharmacy were closed).   Holes are gradually closing & looking much better.

Can anyone tell me what is going on with these hens, how to treat and/or how to prevent?  Please advise.  We are very new with raising backyard chickens.  Does anyone advise a particular book on chicken ailments?  Thanks, Annie