Ears Assessment - Adult Health Assessment

Ears: - Inspect external ear: equal size with no swelling, lumps, lesions, or discharge. - Move pinna, push on tragus and mastoid process: there so be no pain or tenderness. - To use the otoscope, tilt patient's head away from you. Pull the pinna up and back and hold the otoscope upside down. - Locate the tympanic membrane and the cone of light. The tympanic membrane should be shiny and a pearl gray color. - Whispered Voice Test: Have patient cover one ear. Whisper a two-syllable word 1-2 feet from uncovered ear. Patient should be able to repeat word. - Romberg Test: Tests ability of inner ear to help maintain balance. Have patient stand with feet slightly apart, arms at sides, and eyes closed. Patient should be able to maintain position without swaying or tipping over.