Otoscopic Examination
Definition
An otoscopic examination is the visual examination of the auditory canal and tympanic membrane using an otoscope.
Purpose
An otoscopic examination is a procedure that examines the auditory canal and tympanic membrane for infection or blockage due to the presence of a foreign object or build up of wax, the tympanic membrane for signs of rupture, puncture, or hearing loss, and the canal for any variations from normal. Some otoscopes can deliver a small puff of air to the eardrum to determine if the eardrum will vibrate (which is normal). An otoscopic examinations is also part of a normal physical examination.
Precautions
No special precautions are required. However, if an ear infection is present, an ear examination may cause some discomfort or pain.
Description
An otoscopy is an ear examination with an otoscope, a handheld instrument with a tiny light and a cone-shaped attachment called an ear speculum. A physician or nurse usually performs an otoscopic examination as part of a complete physical examination. The ears may also be examined if an ear infection is suspected, or if the patient has a fever, ear pain, or hearing loss. The patient will be asked to sit with the head tipped slightly toward the shoulder so the ear to be examined is pointing up. The doctor or nurse may hold the ear lobe as the speculum of the otoscope is inserted into the ear. Both ears are usually examined, even if the problem seems to affect just one ear, and the procedure takes no more than a few minutes to perform.
Preparation
No special preparation is required prior to an ear examination with an otoscope. The ear speculum, which is inserted into the ear, is cleaned and sanitized before it is used. Specula come in various sizes, and the doctor or nurse will select the size that will be most comfortable for the patient's ear.
Aftercare
If an ear infection is diagnosed, the patient may require treatment with antibiotics. If there is a buildup of wax in the ear canal, it might be rinsed or scraped out.
Complications
This type of ear examination is simple and generally harmless. Caution should always be used any time an object is inserted into the ear. This process could irritate an infected external ear canal and could rupture an eardrum if performed improperly or if the patient moves.
