Question

An older adult has hearing loss and a sensation of fullness in both ears. The nurse should examine the ears for:

1) inflammation of the external canal.
2) accumulation of cerumen in the external canal.
3) presence of a bony growth in the ear.
4) accumulation of cerumen in the internal canal.

Answer 1

A nurse should examine an older adult with hearing loss and a sensation of fullness for cerumen accumulation in the external ear canal. This condition, which can cause conductive hearing loss, is commonly diagnosed with an otoscopic examination.

Step-by-step explanation:

An older adult with hearing loss and a sensation of fullness in both ears is a case often encountered in medical practice. The sensation of fullness, in particular, can be an indicator of cerumen accumulation in the external canal. To address the student's question, the nurse should examine the ears for:

1. Inflammation of the external canal.
2. Accumulation of cerumen in the external canal.
3. Presence of a bony growth in the ear.
4. Accumulation of cerumen in the internal canal.

Cerumen, or earwax, buildup can block the ear canal and lead to conductive hearing loss by preventing sound from reaching the tympanic membrane, or eardrum, effectively. This is something that can be readily diagnosed through a physical examination of the ear using an otoscope. In the case of hearing problems related to ear structures, such as those mentioned, referrals to an audiologist or otolaryngologist may be necessary for further evaluation and management.