The nurse is performing an assessment on a 21-year-old patient ...

[Mr.Thesaxman]

The nurse is performing an assessment on a 21-year-old patient and notices that his nasal mucosa appears pale, gray, and swollen. What would be the most appropriate question to ask the patient?
 
  a. Are you aware of having any allergies?
  b. Do you have an elevated temperature?
  c. Have you had any symptoms of a cold?
  d. Have you been having frequent nosebleeds?

Question 2

The nurse is using an otoscope to assess the nasal cavity. Which of these techniques is correct?
 
  a. Inserting the speculum at least 3 cm into the vestibule
  b. Avoiding touching the nasal septum with the speculum
  c. Gently displacing the nose to the side that is being examined
  d. Keeping the speculum tip medial to avoid touching the floor of the nares

[kmb352]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
With chronic allergies, the mucosa looks swollen, boggy, pale, and gray. Elevated body temperature, colds, and nosebleeds do not cause these mucosal changes.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The correct technique for using an otoscope is to insert the apparatus into the nasal vestibule, avoiding pressure on the sensitive nasal septum. The tip of the nose should be lifted up before inserting the speculum.