A nurse is conducting otoscopy on a child to assess for otitis media.
Which findings indicate acute otitis media (AOM) based on the examination of the tympanic membrane? Select all that apply:.
Redness.
Bulging.
Purulence.
Orange discoloration.
Decreased mobility.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,E
Choice A rationale:
Redness of the tympanic membrane can indicate inflammation, which is a common sign of acute otitis media (AOM).
Inflammation causes increased blood flow to the area, leading to redness and often pain.
Choice B rationale:
Bulging of the tympanic membrane occurs when there is increased pressure behind the eardrum, often due to fluid accumulation.
In the context of acute otitis media, this bulging is caused by the buildup of pus or other fluids in the middle ear.
Choice C rationale:
Purulence (pus) observed in the ear canal is a definitive sign of acute otitis media.
The presence of pus indicates an active infection within the middle ear.
Choice D rationale:
Orange discoloration of the tympanic membrane is not a typical finding in acute otitis media.
The color change could be due to various factors but is not specific to this condition.
Choice E rationale:
Decreased mobility of the tympanic membrane can occur due to the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear, leading to impaired movement.
This decreased mobility is often observed in acute otitis media and contributes to the diagnosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
"Difficulty locating sounds or following directions.”.
Choice A rationale:
Difficulty locating sounds or following directions is a common sign of hearing loss in children with otitis media.
Hearing loss can affect a child's ability to hear and process sounds, leading to problems in locating the source of sounds or following instructions.
This manifestation is indicative of conductive hearing loss, which is commonly associated with otitis media.
Children may have trouble understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.
Choice B rationale:
Ringing or buzzing sound in the ear, also known as tinnitus, is not a typical manifestation of hearing loss in otitis media.
Tinnitus can occur due to various reasons, but it is not a specific indicator of hearing loss associated with otitis media.
Choice C rationale:
Severe, pulsating ear pain is a symptom of acute otitis media, but it is not directly indicative of hearing loss.
Ear pain is caused by the buildup of fluid and pressure in the middle ear, leading to discomfort and pain.
However, it does not necessarily mean the child has hearing loss.
Choice D rationale:
Vertigo and nystagmus are symptoms associated with inner ear disorders, such as vestibular labyrinthitis or Meniere's disease, but they are not typical manifestations of hearing loss in otitis media.
These symptoms involve problems with balance and coordination and are not directly related to hearing loss.
Choice E rationale:
Inconsolable crying due to discomfort is a general symptom that can occur in children with various illnesses, including otitis media.
While it indicates the child is in pain or discomfort, it is not a specific sign of hearing loss.
Children may cry due to ear pain, but this symptom alone does not confirm hearing loss.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Otitis media is more common in young children, especially those between 6 months and 3 years of age.
It is not more common in children over 6 years of age.
Choice B rationale:
Seasonal changes can indeed impact the frequency of otitis media.
During cold seasons, upper respiratory infections are more common, which can lead to otitis media.
Choice C rationale:
Noncompliance with vaccinations is associated with otitis media.
Proper vaccination can prevent certain infections that may lead to otitis media.
Choice D rationale:
Passive smoking can increase the risk of otitis media.
Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause irritation and inflammation in the Eustachian tubes, making individuals, especially children, more susceptible to ear infections.
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