(Select all that apply): A nurse is discussing factors contributing to the pathophysiology of otitis media with a colleague.
Which of the following statements regarding the pathophysiology of otitis media, as described in the text, are correct? (Choose three.).
Eustachian tube obstruction leads to decreased pressure in the middle ear.
Effusion is the fluid that fills the normally air-filled middle ear cavity.
Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis are common pathogens causing otitis media.
Otitis media results from the inflammation of the outer ear.
The eardrum becomes red, swollen, and bulging due to the absence of effusion.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
Choice A rationale:
Eustachian tube obstruction does lead to decreased pressure in the middle ear.
When the Eustachian tube is blocked or not functioning properly, it can create a vacuum in the middle ear, leading to negative pressure, which can pull fluid into the middle ear space.
Choice B rationale:
Effusion is indeed the fluid that fills the normally air-filled middle ear cavity in otitis media.
This fluid can accumulate due to Eustachian tube dysfunction or inflammation, leading to the characteristic symptoms of otitis media.
Choice C rationale:
Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis are indeed common pathogens causing otitis media.
These bacteria can infect the middle ear and lead to the inflammation and fluid accumulation characteristic of otitis media.
Choice D rationale:
Otitis media does not result from the inflammation of the outer ear.
Otitis media specifically refers to inflammation and infection of the middle ear.
Choice E rationale:
The statement about the eardrum becoming red, swollen, and bulging due to the absence of effusion is incorrect.
The presence of effusion behind the eardrum can cause it to appear red, swollen, and bulging, not the absence of effusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice B: Antivirals.
Choice A rationale:
Watchful waiting is a valid approach, especially for mild cases of otitis media, allowing time to see if the condition improves on its own.
Choice B rationale:
Antivirals are not typically used to manage otitis media because it is usually caused by bacterial infections or fluid buildup rather than viruses.
Choice C rationale:
Myringotomy, which involves creating a small incision in the eardrum to drain fluid, is an effective treatment for recurrent or severe cases of otitis media.
Choice D rationale:
Administration of over-the-counter pain relievers helps manage pain and discomfort associated with otitis media and is a common recommendation.
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