Cerumen Impaction Flashcards
1
Q
What does impaction cause?
A
plugging, pressure, muffled hearing, occasionally ear ache
2
Q
What are some causes of impaction?
A
q-tip or hearing aids
3
Q
What inhibits bacterial or fungal growth?
A
acidity of cerumen
4
Q
What are some tips for cerumen removal?
A
soak ear with hydrogen peroxide, start on debrox or OTC wax drops and have pt return when softened
give topical anesthetics
NO WATER PICS
5
Q
What are some topical anesthetics?
A
antipyrine/benzocaine (Auralgan) otic drops
6
Q
What does ear wax do?
A
protect skin from maceration or skin breakdown
