Which action by the nurse describes the correct technique for using an otoscope on an adult?
A) Using the pneumatic attachment to observe for tympanic fluctuation
B) Striking the otoscope against the hand to engage
C) Instructing the adult to raise one finger when a sound is heard
D) Selecting the largest size speculum that fits into the adult's ear canal

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using the largest speculum allows visualization, while using a smaller speculum limits inspection and using a speculum that is too large is uncomfortable to the adult. The pneumatic attachment is used to evaluate the fluctuation of the tympanic membrane in children. The otoscope is not struck. The instrument that is struck before hearing assessment is a tuning fork. Instructing the patient to raise one finger when a sound is heard is done when using an audiometer to assess hearing.

Which Action by the Nurse Describes the Correct Technique for Using