Vestibulocochlear System Assessment [May 14, 2025]

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the vestibulocochlear system, its assessment, and the definitions of important terms.

Vestibulocochlear System

The system responsible for hearing and equilibrium, including components such as the external ear, middle ear, inner ear, and vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII).

Subjective Assessment

Assessment focusing on the patient's reported symptoms such as pain, hearing impairment, dizziness, and tinnitus.

Objective Assessment

Assessment including a brief scan, inspection and palpation of the external ear, otoscopic examination, and hearing assessment.

Otoscopy

An examination method used to inspect the ear canal and tympanic membrane using an otoscope.

Tinnitus

A perception of noise or ringing in the ears in the absence of external sound.

Pruritus

Itching of the ear canal or surrounding areas.

Hearing Assessment

A process to evaluate a patient's hearing ability, commonly including tests like the finger/thumb rub and whisper voice tests.

Health Promotion

Activities aimed at promoting ear hygiene, environment, and diet to avoid ear diseases.

Microtia

A congenital condition where the external ear is underdeveloped.

Macrotia

A condition characterized by abnormally large ears.

Earwax

A natural substance produced in the ear canal that helps protect the ear from dust, foreign particles, and microorganisms.