A nurse is explaining the main cause of otitis media to a parent of a young child.
Which of the following statements accurately describes the primary cause of otitis media as per the information provided in the text?
"Otitis media is mainly caused by the presence of bacteria in the middle ear.”..
"Eustachian tube dysfunction is the primary cause of otitis media.”..
"Otitis media is primarily caused by allergic reactions.”..
"The risk factors for otitis media are not well-defined.”..
The Correct Answer is B
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Migraines and tension headaches are not mentioned as complications of otitis media in the text.
Otitis media primarily affects the middle ear and is associated with complications related to the ear and hearing.
Choice B rationale:
Chronic back pain and joint issues are unrelated to otitis media.
The complications of otitis media are primarily associated with the ear, hearing, and speech.
Choice C rationale:
Speech delay and hearing loss are mentioned as potential consequences of otitis media.
Otitis media can lead to hearing impairment, especially in children, which can subsequently cause speech delays.
This complication occurs due to the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear, which impairs the normal conduction of sound.
Choice D rationale:
Skin rashes and allergic reactions are not mentioned as consequences of otitis media.
Complications of otitis media primarily revolve around the auditory system and related functions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A history of frequent episodes of otitis media is important to inquire about because recurrent ear infections are a common sign of otitis media.
Children who have experienced multiple episodes of otitis media are at a higher risk for developing the condition again.
This information helps the nurse assess the child's susceptibility to ear infections and guides further evaluation and treatment decisions.
Choice B rationale:
Previous upper respiratory tract infections are relevant to the child's overall health but are not specific symptoms of otitis media.
Otitis media can be a complication of upper respiratory infections, but the presence of previous infections alone does not confirm otitis media.
Choice C rationale:
Exposure to loud noise as a daily occurrence is not a symptom of otitis media.
Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle ear, commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections, and is not related to exposure to loud noises.
Choice D rationale:
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear can be associated with otitis media, but it is a nonspecific symptom that can occur in various ear conditions.
While it may raise suspicion, it is not a definitive sign of otitis media.
Choice E rationale:
Immunization history of the child is important for the child's overall health, but it is not a specific symptom of otitis media.
Immunizations do not directly influence the development or presence of otitis media.
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