The patient complains to the nurse about a perceived decrease in hearing.When the nurse examines the patient's ear,she notices a large amount of cerumen (ear wax)buildup at the entrance to the ear canal.The nurse should

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When cerumen is visible,gentle,downward retraction at the entrance to the ear canal causes the wax to loosen and slip out.Instruct the patient never to use sharp objects such as bobby pins or paper clips to remove earwax.Use of such objects traumatizes the ear canal and ruptures the tympanic membrane.Avoid the use of cotton-tipped applicators as well because they cause earwax to become impacted within the canal.Instilling cold or hot water causes nausea or vomiting.

The Patient Complains to the Nurse About a Perceived Decrease