Question

The nurse is preparing to perform otoscopy in a patient with an earache. The nurse finds that the patient's ear canal is filled with cerumen, along with discharge of yellow-colored fluid. What is an appropriate nursing action in this situation?

Avoid irrigating the patient's ear

Avoid instilling eardrops into the patient's ear

Irrigate the patient's ear canal with warm water

Clean the patient's ear with a cotton bud dipped in mineral oil

Answer 1

The appropriate nursing action would be to avoid instilling eardrops and to seek further evaluation from a healthcare provider if needed.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate nursing action in this situation would be to avoid instilling eardrops into the patient's ear. The presence of cerumen (earwax) and discharge of yellow-colored fluid indicates a possible infection or inflammation in the ear. Instilling eardrops may worsen the condition or push the infection deeper into the ear canal.

Instead, the nurse should avoid irrigating the patient's ear and refrain from using cotton buds dipped in mineral oil. These actions can further irritate or damage the ear canal. It is essential to protect the integrity of the ear and prevent any harm.

If the patient is experiencing severe discomfort or pain, the nurse should consult with a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.