Ear Exam

Question 1

Inspection for Ear Exam

Answer 1

Auricle (nodules - tophi) discharge

Question 2

Pain while motioning the auricle or tragus

Answer 2

Otitis Externa

Question 3

Pain while pressing the mastoid process

Answer 3

Otitis Media

Question 4

How to pull auricle for adults

Answer 4

up and back

Question 5

How to pull auricle for children

Answer 5

down and back

Question 6

Weber and Rhinne Test

Answer 6

512 Hz

1. If asked to perform, do Weber’s test first. Then do Rhinne’s test in the one Weber lateralized to. If Weber’s test normal, do Rhinne’s bilaterally.
2. Weber lateralizes the potential conductive deficit: infections, wax, foreign object
3. The opposite ear could have sensorineural deficit: Presbycusis (hair cell damage), neuroma, Meuniere’s (CN VIII damage), ototoxicity (heavy metals)
4. Confrontation tests: Schwaback’s, Watch, and Whisper Test, Audiometry (tones)
5. Audiologist referral: Audiometry testing, hearing aides

Question 7

Swollen ear canal, moist, pale or red

Answer 7

acute otitis externa

Question 8

Ear canal skin thick, red, itchy

Answer 8

chronic otitis externa

Question 9

Bulging, red

Answer 9

acute purulent otitis media

Question 10

Bubbles, yellow, retraction

Answer 10

Serous otitis media (chronic)

Question 11

Black, chronic infections

Answer 11

Perforation