When examining the ear with an otoscope, the nurse notes that the ...

[karen]

When examining the ear with an otoscope, the nurse notes that the tympanic membrane should appear:
 
  a. Light pink with a slight bulge.
  b. Pearly gray and slightly concave.
  c. Pulled in at the base of the cone of light.
  d. Whitish with a small fleck of light in the superior portion.

Question 2

The nurse is examining a patient's ears and notices cerumen in the external canal. Which of these statements about cerumen is correct?
 
  a. Sticky honey-colored cerumen is a sign of infection.
  b. The presence of cerumen is indicative of poor hygiene.
  c. The purpose of cerumen is to protect and lubricate the ear.
  d. Cerumen is necessary for transmitting sound through the auditory canal.

[AmberC1996]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The tympanic membrane is a translucent membrane with a pearly gray color and a prominent cone of light in the anteroinferior quadrant, which is the reflection of the otoscope light. The tympanic membrane is oval and slightly concave, pulled in at its center by the malleus, which is one of the middle ear ossicles.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The ear is lined with glands that secrete cerumen, which is a yellow waxy material that lubricates and protects the ear.

[karen]

Thank you

[AmberC1996]

No problemo