Question

The school nurse is assessing the tympanic membranes of a 3-year-old child. Which of the following demonstrates proper technique?

a. Using an inverted otoscope grip while pulling the auricle downward
b. Pulling the auricle upward and backward
c. Holding the handle of the otoscope between the thumb and index finger while the child lies on the weight scale
d. Using an inverted otoscope grip while pulling the auricle upward

Answer 1

The proper technique for assessing the tympanic membranes of a 3-year-old child is pulling the auricle upward and backward. This technique helps straighten the ear canal for better visualization of the tympanic membrane.

Step-by-step explanation:

The proper technique for assessing the tympanic membranes of a 3-year-old child is pulling the auricle upward and backward (option b). This technique helps straighten the ear canal for better visualization of the tympanic membrane. Using an inverted otoscope grip (options a and d) or holding the handle of the otoscope between the thumb and index finger while the child lies on the weight scale (option c) are not recommended and may not provide a clear view of the tympanic membrane.