Chapter 08: Ear, Nose, Throat, and Eye

What are the three parts of the ear?

Outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear.

What is the pinna/auricle?

Visible external portion of the ear.

What structure separates outer ear from middle ear?

Tympanic membrane/eardrum.

What are the ossicles?

Malleus, incus, and stapes.

Where is sound converted into nerve impulses?

Cochlea.

What is the function of semicircular canals?

Balance/equilibrium, not hearing.

What cranial nerve carries hearing and balance information?

CN VIII, vestibulocochlear nerve.

What is otitis media?

Middle ear infection/inflammation.

What is cerumen?

Earwax.

What should an MA never do during ear irrigation?

Never irrigate if tympanic membrane perforation is suspected or if the provider has not ordered it.

What is the correct order for ear irrigation assistance?

Verify order → identify patient → explain → position patient → use appropriate solution/temperature → irrigate gently if delegated → observe → document.

What is visual acuity testing?

Screening ability to see detail, often with a Snellen chart.

What does 20/20 vision mean?

The patient sees at 20 feet what a person with normal vision sees at 20 feet.

What is conjunctivitis?

Inflammation/infection of the conjunctiva; may be contagious depending on cause.

What is glaucoma?

Increased intraocular pressure can damage the optic nerve.

What is cataract?

Clouding of the lens.

What should an MA do for sudden vision loss or eye injury?

Notify the provider immediately and activate emergency protocol.

What is rhinitis?

Inflammation of the nasal mucosa.

What is pharyngitis?

Inflammation of the throat/pharynx.