Auriscope examination Flashcards

1
Q

Describe the full Auriscope examination

A
  • Screen for any pain
  • Ensure the patient is seated comfortably
  • Select the largest appropriate speculum
  • Attach speculum to auriscope by twisting action, ensure that the speculum is firmly in place
  • Hold the auriscope and ask the patient to slightly turn head away from examiner
  • Inspect the outer ear and the meatus, then gently pull the pinna upwards and backwards (in an adult)
  • Rest your little finger on the patients cheek for support
  • Inspect the auditory canal and visualise the tympanic membrane looking for surface landmarks
  • Remove auriscope gently and repeat on other ear - change speculum if any discharge was present
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2
Q

How do you hold an auriscope?

A

Right hand for Right ear and vice versa

Pinky resting on patients face

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3
Q

What are the landmarks behind the tympanic membrane you are commenting on?

A
  • Handle of malleus
  • Light reflex
  • Pars flaccida
  • Pars tensa
  • Posterior fold
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4
Q

What are you looking for in the ear?

A
  • Auditory canal - wax, foreign bodies, discharge, skin quality
  • Tympanic membrane
    • Colour - should be pinkish/grey
    • Perforation
    • Fluid/effusion
  • Behind tympanic membrane for any visible features (pars tensa, parsa flaccida, handle/lateral process of malleolus, cone of light)
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