Question

What action should the nurse take during an otoscopic examination of an adult patient?

Pull the auricle downward.

Touch the speculum to the bony surface.

Tilt the head of the patient towards left.

Answer 1

During an otoscopic examination of an adult patient, the nurse should tilt the patient's head, pull the auricle, and insert the speculum into the ear canal without touching the bony surface.

Step-by-step explanation:

During an otoscopic examination of an adult patient, the nurse should follow these steps:

1. Tilt the patient's head to the opposite side (right in this case) to enable easy access to the ear canal. This position provides a straight path for the otoscope and allows visualization of the tympanic membrane.
2. Use the hand not holding the otoscope to reach over the patient's head and gently pull the auricle (outer ear) upward and backward. This straightens the ear canal and aligns it with the otoscope.
3. Hold the otoscope like a pen and insert the speculum (attachment for the otoscope) into the ear canal. Do not touch the bony surface of the canal but aim for the tympanic membrane.
4. Examine the ear canal and tympanic membrane by moving the otoscope slowly and steadily, taking note of any abnormalities such as inflammation, earwax buildup, or perforations.

By following these steps, the nurse ensures a proper and effective otoscopic examination of an adult patient.