Question

An adult client has increased fluid in the middle ear, which is causing vertigo. The nurse assesses this client for which associated signs and symptoms of this condition?

Option 1: Tinnitus
Option 2: Nystagmus
Option 3: Bradycardia
Option 4: Hypertension

Answer 1

An adult client with increased fluid in the middle ear experiencing vertigo may display symptoms such as tinnitus and nystagmus. These are related to disturbances in the vestibulocochlear nerve due to the fluid buildup. Bradycardia and hypertension are not directly associated symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

An adult client with increased fluid in the middle ear causing vertigo might exhibit various associated signs and symptoms due to the condition affecting the vestibulocochlear nerve. Among the options presented:

• Tinnitus (Option 1) is a common symptom associated with fluid accumulation in the inner ear, resulting in a low-frequency ringing or buzzing in the ears.
• Nystagmus (Option 2) can also be associated with inner ear disorders, as it involves involuntary eye movements that may occur with balance disturbances like vertigo.
• Bradycardia (Option 3) is not typically a direct symptom linked to middle ear fluid accumulation.
• Hypertension (Option 4) is also not a symptom commonly associated with this condition.

Therefore, both tinnitus and nystagmus are plausible signs a nurse would assess for, with tinnitus being the more directly associated symptom of the ones listed.