A nurse is evaluating a child with suspected otitis media.
Which assessment findings are more likely associated with otitis media with effusion (OME)? Select The correct statements:.
"The child reports severe, throbbing ear pain.”..
"Pus is observed draining from the ear canal.”..
"Hearing loss is mild to moderate.”..
"The eardrum appears red and bulging.”..
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
The child reporting severe, throbbing ear pain is more indicative of acute otitis media (AOM) rather than otitis media with effusion (OME).
Severe pain is a common symptom of an active infection in the middle ear.
Choice B rationale:
Pus observed draining from the ear canal is a sign of acute otitis media (AOM).
Drainage indicates a ruptured eardrum, allowing the infected fluid to escape, relieving pressure and pain.
Choice C rationale:
Hearing loss that is mild to moderate is characteristic of otitis media with effusion (OME).
OME occurs when fluid remains trapped in the middle ear after the infection has resolved.
The presence of fluid can affect hearing, especially at lower frequencies, leading to mild to moderate hearing loss.
Choice D rationale:
The eardrum appearing red and bulging is a typical finding in acute otitis media (AOM), not otitis media with effusion (OME).
In AOM, the eardrum becomes red due to inflammation and bulges due to increased pressure from fluid buildup.
Nursing Test Bank
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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