ears osce

Question 1

Ear Examination Key Points

Answer 1

• Wash hands, introduce yourself, explain examination
• Ask patient if there is any pain and tell them when they feel any discomfort + ask for consent
• Hold otoscope like a pen between thumb + index
• Gently pull pinna upwards, backwards and outwards
• End examination by thanking patient making sure they are comfortable

Question 2

Treatment of otitis externa

Answer 2

• Analgesics: Paracetamol and ibuprofen
• Acetic acid: Earcalm spray: one spray into the affected ear at least 3 times a day.

If there is no improvement or worsens within 48 hours of treatment, the patient should be referred.

Question 3

Treatment of otitis media

Answer 3

• Simple analgesia and antipyretic agent (reduces fever)= paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Self-limiting but may require antibiotics, 1st=amoxicillin, 2nd line= co-amoxiclav

Question 4

Treatment for impacted ear wax

Answer 4

• Cerumol ear drops (removed + soften ear wax)
• Olive oil drops
• Urea hydrogen peroxide: Otex ear drops (not reccomended as it leads to irritation)
• Sodium bicarbonate