A patient presents with severe ear pain, itching, and discharge from the ear. Upon examination, the external auditory canal is swollen and red. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial intervention for a patient diagnosed with otitis externa?
Recommend cleaning the ear with cotton swabs daily.
Advise the patient to use over-the-counter ear drops.
Administer oral antibiotics.
Administer topical antibiotics and corticosteroids.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Recommending cleaning the ear with cotton swabs daily is not appropriate for managing otitis externa. Using cotton swabs can further irritate the ear canal, potentially worsening the inflammation and increasing the risk of infection. It is generally advised to avoid inserting anything into the ear canal to prevent damage and irritation.
Choice B Reason:
Advising the patient to use over-the-counter ear drops is not the best initial intervention. While some over-the-counter ear drops may provide temporary relief, they are not as effective as prescription topical antibiotics and corticosteroids in treating the underlying infection and inflammation associated with otitis externa. Proper medical treatment is necessary to ensure effective management of the condition.
Choice C Reason:
Administering oral antibiotics is not typically the first-line treatment for uncomplicated otitis externa. Oral antibiotics are reserved for cases where the infection has spread beyond the ear canal or in patients with risk factors for severe infection. Topical antibiotics and corticosteroids are preferred for their direct action on the affected area and fewer systemic side effects.
Choice D Reason:
Administering topical antibiotics and corticosteroids is the most appropriate initial intervention for otitis externa. Topical treatments effectively target the infection and reduce inflammation, providing relief from symptoms such as pain, itching, and discharge. This approach is supported by clinical guidelines and is considered the standard of care for managing otitis externa.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Starting the patient on a high-calcium diet is not the most appropriate initial intervention for multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma often leads to hypercalcemia, a condition where calcium levels in the blood are abnormally high due to bone breakdown. Increasing calcium intake can exacerbate this condition, leading to further complications such as kidney stones and impaired kidney function. Therefore, this choice is not suitable for managing the patient’s immediate symptoms.
Choice B Reason:
Encouraging the patient to increase physical activity to build bone strength is beneficial in the long term but not the most appropriate initial intervention. While weight-bearing exercises can help strengthen bones, they should be introduced gradually and under medical supervision to avoid fractures and other injuries. The immediate priority is to manage the patient’s pain and fatigue effectively.
Choice C Reason:
Advising the patient to limit fluid intake to prevent kidney damage is not appropriate. In fact, adequate hydration is crucial for patients with multiple myeloma to help flush out toxins and prevent kidney damage. Limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration and worsen kidney function, which is already at risk due to the disease.
Choice D Reason:
Administering prescribed analgesics and educating the patient about pain management strategies is the most appropriate initial intervention. Pain management is a critical aspect of care for multiple myeloma patients, as bone pain is a common and debilitating symptom. Effective pain management improves the patient’s quality of life and allows them to participate in other therapeutic activities. Education on pain management strategies, including the use of medications, physical therapy, and complementary therapies, empowers the patient to manage their symptoms effectively.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Resuming an exercise routine immediately after cochlear implant surgery is not advisable. Postoperative care guidelines typically recommend avoiding strenuous activities for a period of time to allow the surgical site to heal properly. Engaging in exercise too soon can increase the risk of complications such as bleeding or dislodging the implant.
Choice B Reason:
Eating soft foods is recommended after cochlear implant surgery to avoid putting strain on the surgical site and to ensure comfort while chewing. Soft foods are easier to manage and less likely to cause discomfort or disrupt the healing process. This choice is appropriate for promoting a smooth recovery.
Choice C Reason:
Washing your hair 24 hours after surgery is generally not recommended. Most postoperative care instructions advise keeping the surgical site dry for at least a few days to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. Washing the hair too soon can introduce bacteria to the incision site and increase the risk of complications.
Choice D Reason:
Lying on your back when sleeping is often recommended to avoid putting pressure on the surgical site. However, this instruction alone does not address the immediate dietary needs of the patient, which are crucial for comfort and recovery in the initial postoperative period.
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