Otic Key Concepts

Question 1

What is Meniere’s Disease or Labyrinthitis?

Answer 1

Inner ear disorder that results in extreme vertigo and loss of balance that can progress to nausea, vomiting, or even severe vomiting

Question 2

What medications can be used to treat dizziness and nausea associated with Meniere’s Disease?

Answer 2

Meclizine is the DOC, antihistamines to dry up the fluid in the ear, and antiemetics to help with nausea

Question 3

When treating Otitis media, what would be the advantage of giving a combination of a steroid and an antibiotic to a patient?

Answer 3

Antibiotic treats the underlying cause, which is microorganism while the steroid treats the inflammation at the site that is causing pain

Question 4

Nursing considerations for handling and administering ear drops?

Answer 4

Make sure intact tympanic membrane before instilling drops
Administer drops slightly warm as cool drops can cause dizziness
Adults: hold pinna up and back
Child: hold pinna down and back
Have patient lie on opposite side for about 5 minutes
Can place cotton loosely in canal to help keep medicine inside