Final answer:
The documented observation from an otoscopic examination that supports the suspicion of a perforated eardrum is the presence of bloody or serosanguinous drainage. This finding is more indicative of a tear or perforation than the other options listed which suggest different conditions of the tympanic membrane.
Step-by-step explanation:
A perforated eardrum, also known as a tympanic membrane perforation, can occur from direct trauma such as being hit in the ear with a basketball. An otoscopic examination can help visualize the eardrum to determine its condition and support the suspicion of a perforation. Among the given options in the student's question, the observation that best supports the suspicion of a perforated eardrum is the presence of bloody or serosanguinous drainage (Option D).
This is because a clear, transparent tympanic membrane (Option A) would suggest a healthy eardrum, whereas a red and bulging tympanic membrane (Option B) is typically indicative of an infection. A retracted and dull tympanic membrane (Option C) may suggest issues such as Eustachian tube dysfunction or negative middle ear pressure, but not necessarily a perforation. The presence of bloody or serosanguinous drainage often points to a tear or perforation as blood and other fluids can escape through the rupture.