Module IV Flashcards
External ear:
Pinna or auricle and external ear canal
Inner ear:
Hearing and balance structures
Epithetial cell migration
The process by which the healthy ear is able to clean itself
What are some causes of Otitis Externa?
Primary causes (ear mites, allergies), secondary causes (bacteria, yeast)
How to manage otitis externa
Ear cleaning + topical treatment
When to perform ear cleaning
When there is waxy or purulent discharge, to complete the external ear exam. Before applying any topical medication
Ceruminlytic ear cleaners do what:
Allow the ear cleaner to break down cerumen or wax
Purpose of astringent and drying ear cleaners:
Assist in contracting the inflamed skin in the ear canal, as well as drying it. Helps reduce humidity
Benefit of antimicrobial ingredients in ear cleaners?
Help kill or stop the growth and reproduction of microorganisms
Action of acidifying ingredients in ear cleaners:
- Lower the pH in the external ear canal.
Cerumene:
- 25% squalene (ceruminolytic) and Isopropyl Myristate (emollient)
- Safe to use with a ruptured ear drum
Ear cleansing solution:
- Lactic, benzoic and salicylic acids
- SD-alcohol
- Lowers ear canal pH to 6
pHnotix
- Indicated in any type of otitis externa. Potent ceruminolytic activity compared to most commonly used ear cleaners. Not for routine use in normal ears
