A patient has been diagnosed with hearing loss related to damage of the end organ for hearing or cranial nerve VIII. What term is used to describe this condition?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sensorineural hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve (cranial nerve VIII). Exostoses (A) are bony growths in the ear canal, not related to cranial nerve VIII. Otalgia (B) refers to ear pain, not hearing loss. Presbycusis (D) is age-related hearing loss, not specifically related to damage of the end organ for hearing or cranial nerve VIII. Therefore, C is the most appropriate term to describe the given condition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct term for the involuntary, rhythmic eye movements seen in the patient with multiple sclerosis is nystagmus. Nystagmus is a condition characterized by repetitive, uncontrolled eye movements that can be horizontal, vertical, or rotary. In multiple sclerosis, nystagmus can occur due to damage to the nerves that control eye movement. Vertigo (choice A) is a sensation of spinning or dizziness, not related to eye movements. Tinnitus (choice B) is a perception of noise or ringing in the ears. Astigmatism (choice D) is a refractive error of the eye, not related to involuntary eye movements.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because being aware of patients' medication regimens allows nurses to identify and monitor ototoxic medications that can cause hearing loss. By collaborating with other professionals, nurses can adjust medications or recommend alternative treatments to prevent or minimize ototoxicity. This proactive approach directly targets the root cause of potential hearing loss. A: Understanding types of hearing loss is important but does not directly prevent ototoxicity. B: Educating about age-related changes in hearing does not address ototoxicity prevention. C: Educating about noise exposure risks is important for overall hearing health but does not specifically prevent ototoxicity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Preparation of nutritious meals and avoidance of contraindicated foods. After mastoid surgery, proper nutrition is crucial for healing and recovery. Nutritious meals support the immune system and aid in tissue repair. Avoiding contraindicated foods, such as those that may cause inflammation or interfere with medications, is essential for the patient's well-being. Choices B, C, and D are not the primary focus of home care after mastoid surgery. While rest, adaptation to hearing loss, and assistance with ambulation are important, they are secondary to ensuring proper nutrition for optimal recovery in this case.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Audiometry. Postoperative audiometry is the most appropriate assessment to determine the success of ossiculoplasty, as it evaluates the patient's hearing function and any improvements made by the surgery. Otoscopy (A) is a visual examination of the ear canal and may not provide comprehensive information on hearing. Balance testing (C) assesses equilibrium and is not directly related to the success of ossiculoplasty. Culture and sensitivity testing (D) of ear discharge is used to identify infections and would not directly indicate the success of the surgery.