A client presents with itching and pain in the left ear that started several days after beginning swim lessons. The nurse observes a discharge coming from the ear with a musty odor. How should the nurse expect the ear to appear when performing an otoscopic examination?

Retracted and non-mobile tympanic membrane.

Red, edematous ear canal with no visualization of the tympanic membrane.

Translucent, pearly gray and mobile tympanic membrane.

Thickened and bulging tympanic membrane.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A) Retracted and non-mobile tympanic membrane: This finding is typically associated with conditions such as eustachian tube dysfunction or negative middle ear pressure, not with the symptoms described in this scenario.

B) Red, edematous ear canal with no visualization of the tympanic membrane: This description aligns with otitis externa, commonly known as "swimmer's ear." The client's history of recent swimming, itching, pain, and discharge with a musty odor are classic signs of this condition. In otitis externa, the ear canal often appears red and swollen, and the inflammation can obstruct the view of the tympanic membrane.

C) Translucent, pearly gray and mobile tympanic membrane: This appearance indicates a normal, healthy ear and is inconsistent with the symptoms of pain, itching, and discharge described by the client.

D) Thickened and bulging tympanic membrane: This finding is more indicative of otitis media with effusion or acute otitis media, where fluid or pus collects behind the eardrum, causing it to bulge. However, it does not match the scenario of external ear canal inflammation and discharge following swimming.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Answer: C. Assure the client that her breasts are normal, and advise annual evaluations.

Rationale:

A. Suggest that the client schedule a mammogram after her next menstrual period:
A mammogram is generally not indicated for adolescents unless there are specific concerns such as a family history of breast cancer or the presence of abnormal findings. Given the client's age and the findings of generalized lumpiness without discrete masses, a mammogram would not be the most appropriate action at this stage.

B. Explain to the client that an ultrasound of the breast will likely be necessary:
An ultrasound is typically used for further evaluation if discrete masses are found or if there are unusual characteristics in the breast tissue. In this case, the generalized lumpiness is likely related to normal physiological changes, making an ultrasound unnecessary at this time.

C. Assure the client that her breasts are normal, and advise annual evaluations:
The findings of generalized lumpiness and tenderness before menstruation are consistent with normal physiological changes associated with the menstrual cycle, often due to hormonal fluctuations. Providing reassurance and advising annual evaluations is appropriate, as it addresses the client's concerns and promotes confidence in her breast health without unnecessary interventions.

D. Request a return visit after her menstrual period for a breast exam re-check:
While a follow-up can be beneficial, it may not be necessary in this case since the findings are typical of normal breast tissue changes associated with the menstrual cycle. Reassuring the client and encouraging annual evaluations is a more effective approach than suggesting an unnecessary follow-up visit.

A. Intranasal edema and swelling of turbinates. B. Eye tearing and thick yellow nasal drainage. C. Purulent secretions from eyes and nares. D. Snoring and bilateral, pale gray nodules.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Intranasal edema and swelling of turbinates:
Allergic rhinitis is characterized by inflammation of the nasal mucosa in response to allergen exposure. This inflammation leads to symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and rhinorrhea. Intranasal edema and swelling of the turbinates are common findings in allergic rhinitis due to the body's immune response to allergens.

B) Eye tearing and thick yellow nasal drainage:
Eye tearing and thick yellow nasal drainage are more indicative of a bacterial infection rather than allergic rhinitis. In allergic rhinitis, nasal discharge is typically clear and watery.

C) Purulent secretions from eyes and nares:
Purulent secretions from the eyes and nares suggest a bacterial infection rather than allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis typically presents with clear nasal discharge, while purulent secretions are more commonly associated with bacterial sinusitis or conjunctivitis.

D) Snoring and bilateral, pale gray nodules:
Snoring and bilateral, pale gray nodules are not characteristic findings of allergic rhinitis. Snoring may be associated with nasal congestion, but pale gray nodules are not typically observed in allergic rhinitis. These findings may indicate other nasal or upper airway conditions such as nasal polyps or adenoid hypertrophy.

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A client presents with itching and pain in the left ear that started several days after beginning swim lessons. The nurse observes a discharge coming from the ear with a musty odor. How should the nurse expect the ear to appear when performing an otoscopic examination?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

An adolescent female client comes to the clinic troubled by breast tenderness before her menstrual periods. On examination, the nurse notes generalized lumpiness of both breasts with no discrete masses and no nipple discharge. Which action should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Rationale:

A client is being evaluated for environmental allergies. While examining the client's nasal passage, which finding suggests to the nurse that the client is experiencing allergic rhinitis?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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