The nurse is preparing to assess an older patient's ears. Which ...

[jace]

The nurse is preparing to assess an older patient's ears. Which techniques should the nurse consider when conducting this assessment?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. whisper test
  2. Rinne test
  3. Weber test
  4. electronystagmograp hy (ENG)
  5. audiometer

Question 2

The nurse is reviewing the physiology of the ear with a patient with a hearing disorder. What should the nurse explain about the function of the inner ear?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. It coordinates visual pathways.
  2. It integrates efferent neuron messages.
  3. It provides information about head position.
  4. It maintains middle ear structure and function.
  5. It conducts sound.

[vickyvicksss]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5
The examiner can whisper a word 1 or 2 feet behind the patient, asking the patient to repeat the word; this may provide a rough estimate of hearing acuity. The Rinne and Weber tests measure hearing loss. Audiometry is used to evaluate and diagnose conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. Electronystagmograp hy (ENG) is used to detect eye movements (nystagmus) in response to changes in head position or stimulation of balance sensors in the inner ear using warm and cool water or air. It may be used to evaluate vertigo or help diagnose Mnire disease.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 3, 5
The inner ear is a maze of bony chambers. The membranous labyrinth, a delicate network of interconnected fluid-filled tubes, lies within this maze. Perilymph, a fluid similar to cerebrospinal fluid, flows between the bony and the membranous labyrinth. Within the chambers of the membranous labyrinth is a fluid called endolymph. These fluids conduct sound vibrations. Receptors within the inner ear maintain equilibrium by responding to changes in head position in order to coordinate body movements and balance. The inner ear is not involved with visual pathways. It does not integrate efferent neuron messages or maintain middle ear structure and function.