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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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Dimpled area above anus:
This finding may indicate a pilonidal cyst, which is an abnormality rather than a normal appearance of the anus.

B) Flap of tissue at sphincter:
A flap of tissue at the anal sphincter, also known as the anal valve, is a normal anatomical feature. It helps maintain continence and prevents leakage of stool.

C) Increased pigmentation and coarse skin:
Increased pigmentation and coarse skin may be typical findings in the perianal area due to factors such as friction, moisture, or aging. While not everyone will have this appearance, it is within the range of normal variations.

D) Hypotonic tone of the anal sphincter:
Hypotonic tone of the anal sphincter may suggest weakness or dysfunction of the anal sphincter, which is not considered a normal finding.

A. Hyperactive bowel sounds. B. A minor variation. C. Possible renal artery stenosis. D. Normal borborygmus sounds.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Hyperactive bowel sounds:
Hyperactive bowel sounds are typically characterized by loud, high-pitched gurgles heard throughout the abdomen. They are often associated with increased intestinal motility, such as in gastroenteritis or diarrhea, rather than a low-pitched blowing sound in the upper midline area.

B) A minor variation:
A minor variation may refer to a benign finding or a slight deviation from the norm. However, a low-pitched blowing sound in the upper midline area would not typically be considered a minor variation and may warrant further investigation.

C) Possible renal artery stenosis:
A low-pitched blowing sound in the upper midline area could indicate a renal artery bruit, which is a sign of renal artery stenosis. Renal artery stenosis is a narrowing of the renal artery, often due to atherosclerosis, which can lead to decreased blood flow to the kidneys. A renal artery bruit may be auscultated over the renal arteries and is indicative of turbulent blood flow through the narrowed artery.

D) Normal borborygmus sounds:
Borborygmi are normal bowel sounds characterized by gurgling, rumbling, or growling noises produced by the movement of gas and fluid in the intestines. However, a low-pitched blowing sound in the upper midline area would not typically be described as normal borborygmi. Borborygmi are usually heard at a higher frequency and throughout the abdomen.

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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

While completing an admission assessment for a client with gastrointestinal bleeding, the nurse inspects the perianal area and anus. Which findings indicate a normal appearance of the anus?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

While auscultating a client's abdomen, the nurse hears a low-pitched blowing sound in the upper midline area. Which is the likely indication of this finding?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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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