Asked by samuel komera on May 16, 2024
Verified
The nurse is assessing a 16-year-old patient who has suffered head injuries from a recent motor vehicle accident. Which of these statements indicates the most important reason for assessing for any drainage from the ear canal?
A) The auditory canal may be occluded from increased cerumen.
B) If the drum has ruptured, then purulent drainage will result.
C) Bloody or clear watery drainage can indicate a basal skull fracture.
D) Foreign bodies from the accident may cause occlusion of the ear canal.
Drainage
The removal of fluid, such as pus or blood, from a wound or body cavity, often using a tube or other device, to promote healing.
Auditory Canal
A tube-like structure that extends from the outer ear to the eardrum, conducting sound waves to the eardrum.
Basal Skull Fracture
A fracture at the base of the skull, often associated with serious head injuries and potential complications.
- Analyze the manifestations and potential adverse outcomes of ear infections in infants, children, and adults.
Verified Answer
BE
Braden EubanksMay 19, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Frank blood or clear watery drainage (cerebrospinal fluid) after a trauma suggests a basal skull fracture and warrants immediate referral. Purulent drainage indicates otitis externa or otitis media. An ear canal occluded from cerumen would not be draining, purulent drainage indicates otitis externa or otitis media, and it is not likely a foreign body from an accident would cause occlusion of the ear canal.
Learning Objectives
- Analyze the manifestations and potential adverse outcomes of ear infections in infants, children, and adults.