Question

The nurse documents observations about the light reflex seen on the tympanic membrane during an otoscopic examination. Which observation signifies that the ears are normal?

The light reflection is at the 7 o'clock position in both the ears.

The light reflection is distorted in both ears.

The light reflection is amber yellow in color.

The light reflection is at the 5 o'clock position on the right tympanic membrane, and the 7 o'clock position on the left.

Answer 1

The normal otoscopic finding for the tympanic membrane's light reflex is at the 5 o'clock position on the right and the 7 o'clock position on the left. Any deviation, such as a distorted light reflex or amber yellow color, may indicate an abnormal condition. The position reflects how sound waves interact with a healthy eardrum and ossicles for proper hearing.

Step-by-step explanation:

During an otoscopic examination, the normal position for the light reflex on the tympanic membrane is at the 5 o'clock position on the right tympanic membrane and the 7 o'clock position on the left. This reflects the normal anatomy of the ear, where the cone of light should appear due to the reflection of light from the otoscope. An amber yellow color might indicate fluid or infection, and a distorted light reflection could signify an abnormality of the tympanic membrane such as scarring or bulging due to infection.

The tympanic membrane, or eardrum, is a vital structure that vibrates upon being struck by sound waves, which are then transmitted through the ossicles (malleus, incus, and stapes) to the inner ear, where they will be transduced into a neural signal. An intact light reflex is an indicator of a healthy tympanic membrane and middle ear.