DCH2

1. Which of the following symptoms is least likely associated with cerumen impaction?

• Ear pain
• Nausea

• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus

2. 2. What is the primary action of normal saline drops in managing cerumen impaction?

• • Softening the wax

• • Reducing inflammation

• • Preventing infection

• • Stimulating the vagus nerve

Health conditions that may predispose an individual to cerumen impaction include bony blockage, external otitis, and ____________ diseases such as eczema.

What is the most common bacterial organism responsible for otitis externa?

• Escherichia coli

• Staphylococcus aureus

• Pseudomonas aeruginosa

• Streptococcus pneumoniae

A 45-year-old patient presents with ear pain, itching, and discharge from the ear canal. Upon examination, the HA notes swelling and erythema in the auditory canal. Which of the following complications should the Health Assistant be most concerned about in this patient?

• A) Facial cellulitis

• Osteomyelitis

• Intracranial spread

• All of the above

A 6-year-old boy presents with a 3-day history of ear pain, fever, and irritability. His mother reports that he has had recurrent upper respiratory infections. On examination, his tympanic membrane is red and bulging. What is the most likely diagnosis?

• Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media

• Acute Suppurative Otitis Media

• Serous Otitis Media

• Otitis Externa

A 10-year-old girl presents with a 2-month history of persistent ear discharge from her right ear. She has had multiple episodes of ear infections over the past year, treated with antibiotics. She complains of ear pain and some hearing loss. Examination reveals a perforated tympanic membrane and purulent discharge in the auditory canal.

What is the most important management step for this patient?

• Administer high-dose intravenous antibiotics

• Start oral antibiotics based on culture and sensitivity

• Refer for immediate surgical intervention

• Advise against any water exposure to the ear