An older adult in the family practice clinic reports a decrease ...

[abc]

An older adult in the family practice clinic reports a decrease in hearing over a week. What action by the nurse is most appropriate?
 
  a. Assess for cerumen buildup.
  b. Facilitate audiological testing.
  c. Perform tuning fork tests.
  d. Review the medication list.

Question 2

A client has external otitis. On what comfort measure does the nurse instruct the client?
 
  a. Applying ice four times a day
  b. Instilling vinegar-and-water drops
  c. Use of a heating pad to the ear
  d. Using a home humidifier

[scikid]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
All options are possible actions for the client with hearing loss. The first action the nurse should take is to look for cerumen buildup, which can decrease hearing in the older adult. If this is normal, medications should be assessed for ototoxicity. Further auditory testing may be needed for this client.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
A heating pad on low or a warm moist pack can provide comfort to the client with otitis externa. The other options are not warranted.

[abc]

Thank you

[scikid]

Happy to help you