Answer to Question 1
4. Utilize prescribed lubricating and dissolving medication as indicated
Rationale:
The nurse should instruct the client how to use the prescribed medication to lubricate and dissolve the impacted cerumen. The nurse should not instruct the client to clean out the wax with an ear swab nor to insert water into the ears daily. The technique of occluding the nasal passages with pinched fingers and blowing until the ears pop could cause damage to the client's inner ear structures and should not be done.
Answer to Question 2
3. Tympanometry
Rationale:
The tympanometry is an indirect measurement of the compliance and impedance of the middle ear to sound transmission. The external auditory meatus is subjected to neutral, positive, and negative air pressure while the resultant sound energy flow is monitored.
The Rinne and Weber tests assess bone and air conduction with the use of a tuning fork. Acoustic reflex testing uses a tone presented at various intensities to evaluate movement of the structures of the middle ear.
Weber test: Place the base of the tuning fork on top of the client’s head.
Testing hearing acuity using a tuning fork.
To increase pressure using body weight, lean on your client.
Testing patellar reflex, client in a supine position
Position the client
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