A patient with acute otitis media of the left ear,which has been unresponsive to antibiotics,undergoes a myringotomy with placement of a ventilating tube,performed in an ambulatory surgical centre.Before she leaves the centre after the procedure,what is it most important for the nurse to instruct the patient to do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most important instruction for a patient with a myringotomy and placement of a ventilating tube is to avoid getting water in the ear. This is because water in the ear can lead to infection and displacement of the tube. Avoiding coughing or sneezing and using pain medication may also be important, but avoiding water in the ear is the most crucial instruction. Restricting fluid intake is not necessary.

A Patient with Acute Otitis Media of the Left Ear,which