CHAPTER 16 - VESTIBULOCOCHLEAR SYSTEM ASSESSMENT

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and definitions related to the vestibulocochlear system and its assessment.

Vestibulocochlear system

A sensory system responsible for hearing and equilibrium, which involves the external ear, middle ear, inner ear, and cranial nerve VIII.

Cranial nerve VIII

Also known as the vestibulocochlear nerve, it transmits auditory and balance information from the inner ear to the brain.

Conductive hearing loss

A type of hearing loss where sound waves do not efficiently travel through the outer ear canal to the eardrum and the tiny bones of the middle ear.

Sensorineural degeneration

The most common type of hearing loss, typically resulting from damage to the inner ear or to the nerve pathways from the inner ear to the brain.

Tinnitus

An auditory perception of sound when no external sound is present, often described as ringing or buzzing in the ears.

Cerumen impaction

The accumulation of earwax in the ear canal, which can lead to hearing loss, discomfort, and in some cases, pain.

Erythema

Redness of the skin or mucous membranes, typically caused by increased blood flow as a response to injury or inflammation.

Vertigo

A sensation of spinning or dizziness, often caused by issues within the vestibular system of the inner ear.

Ototoxic medications

Drugs that can cause damage to the inner ear, potentially leading to hearing loss or balance issues.

Otitis media

An infection or inflammation of the middle ear, commonly associated with fluid buildup.