A nurse is educating parents about risk factors for otitis media.
Which of the following factors mentioned in the text as risk factors for otitis media is most closely associated with an increased exposure to infectious agents?
"Age".
"Season".
"Allergies".
"Day care attendance".
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Age alone is not a risk factor for otitis media.
However, certain age groups, such as young children, are more susceptible to ear infections due to their developing immune systems and shorter Eustachian tubes.
Choice B rationale:
Season is not a direct risk factor for otitis media.
While certain respiratory infections might be more common in specific seasons, otitis media itself is not strongly influenced by seasonal changes.
Choice C rationale:
Allergies can contribute to ear infections, but they are not the most closely associated risk factor mentioned in the context.
Allergies can lead to inflammation and fluid buildup in the middle ear, making individuals more prone to infections.
However, in the given options, day care attendance is a more specific risk factor related to exposure to infectious agents.
Choice D rationale:
Day care attendance is closely associated with an increased exposure to infectious agents, including the bacteria that can cause otitis media.
Children in day care settings are in close contact with others, facilitating the spread of infections.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Otitis media is not mainly caused by the presence of bacteria in the middle ear.
While bacterial infections can contribute to otitis media, it is not the primary cause as per the information provided in the text.
Choice B rationale:
Eustachian tube dysfunction is indeed the primary cause of otitis media.
The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat.
When this tube is not functioning correctly, it can lead to the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear, providing an ideal environment for bacterial growth and infection, which results in otitis media.
Choice C rationale:
Otitis media is not primarily caused by allergic reactions.
While allergies can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction, it is not the main cause of otitis media.
Choice D rationale:
The statement that "The risk factors for otitis media are not well-defined" is incorrect.
The risk factors for otitis media are well-established, including factors like age (more common in children), exposure to smoke, attending daycare, and Eustachian tube abnormalities.
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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