The nurse is preparing to perform an otoscopic exam of the ear. The patient is restless but has agreed to the exam. List in order of priority the steps the nurse would perform
Choice 1. Explain the procedure to the patient.
Choice 2. Grasp the superior portion of the auricle and pull up, out, and back to straighten the auditory canal.
Choice 3. Hold the handle of the otoscope in the dominant hand, otoscope handle upward.
Choice 4. Wash the hands.
Choice 5. Turn on the otoscope light.
Choice 6. Rest the hand holding the otoscope against the patient's head.
Correct Answer: 1, 4, 5, 3, 6, 2
The correct procedure for an otoscopic ear exam is: Explain the procedure to the patient. Wash the hands; wear disposable gloves if the patient has any drainage from the ears. Turn on the otoscope light. Ask the patient to tip the head slightly toward the shoulder opposite the ear being examined. When the patient is in this position, the auditory canal is aligned with the speculum. Hold the handle of the otoscope in the dominant hand. If the patient is restless, hold the otoscope handle upward, resting the hand against the patient's head. If the patient is cooperative, hold the handle downward. For adult patients, grasp the superior portion of the auricle and pull up, out, and back to straighten the auditory canal.
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