Cerumen Impaction

Question 1

What are the signs of cerumen impaction

Answer 1

1. Pruritus
2. Fullness or plugged
3. Tinnitus
4. Decreased hearing

Question 2

What will be found on the PE

Answer 2

1. Mass in canal
2. Cannot view TM

Question 3

How is cerumen a defense mechanism

Answer 3

Secreted by glands in the skin that line the outer part of the auditory canal, tiny hair help keep it distal to the TM
1. Traps dirt, decelerates growth of bacteria
2. Accumulates on own cannot naturally wash away
3. 10 decibels difference

Question 4

What is the treatment of cerumen impaction

Answer 4

1. Removal with ear curette or loop
2. Irrigation of ear canal
   *body temp water
   *aim at ear canal adjacent to cerumen

Question 5

Is a water pick recommended to treat a cerumen impaction?

Answer 5

No
*also do not irrigate if TM is not intact