Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because dry, flaky cerumen can indicate a change in cilia in the ear canal, potentially leading to conductive hearing loss. This warrants further assessment by the nurse to ensure the patient's aural health is not compromised. A: Eczema lesions typically present differently and are not directly related to dry cerumen. B: While hygiene can contribute to cerumen buildup, dry, flaky cerumen alone does not necessarily indicate poor hygiene. C: Dry, flaky cerumen is not considered a normal finding in a healthy ear and should prompt further evaluation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pull the pinna up and back before inserting the speculum. This is because pulling the pinna up and back straightens the auditory canal, allowing for easier and more accurate insertion of the speculum without causing discomfort or injury. Option A is incorrect as tilting the head forward may obstruct the view. Option B is incorrect as maintaining traction is essential for stability. Option D is incorrect as using the smallest speculum may not provide a clear view or proper insertion depth.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The bright cherry-red coloring in a semiconscious woman found on the floor in her kitchen indicates carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin with a higher affinity than oxygen, leading to tissue hypoxia and the characteristic cherry-red coloration. Polycythemia would result in a purplish-red color, carotenemia in a yellow-orange hue, and uremia in a pale or yellowish complexion. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as it aligns with the clinical presentation and pathophysiology of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: a hordeolum (stye). A hordeolum is a localized infection in the eyelid, typically caused by bacterial infection of the oil glands. In this case, the presence of a painful pustule at the lid margin, along with redness and swelling, is characteristic of a hordeolum. The pain on touch is also indicative of an infection. Choice A, a chalazion, is an inflammatory lesion caused by a blocked oil gland, but it is usually painless and not typically associated with redness or tenderness. Choice C, dacryocystitis, is an infection of the lacrimal sac, which presents with different symptoms such as tenderness over the inner corner of the eye and tearing. Choice D, blepharitis, is inflammation of the eyelid margins, but it does not typically present with a painful pustule at the lid margin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Red and bulging. In otitis media, the tympanic membrane becomes red and bulging due to inflammation and fluid accumulation. This is an early sign as it indicates increased pressure within the middle ear. Choice B (Hypomobility) is incorrect because it refers to decreased movement of the tympanic membrane, which is not specific to otitis media. Choice C (Retraction with landmarks clearly visible) is incorrect as it suggests the tympanic membrane is pulled inward, which is more indicative of otitis media with effusion rather than acute otitis media. Choice D (Flat, slightly pulled in at the center, and moves with insufflation) is incorrect as it describes a normal or retracted tympanic membrane rather than the characteristic red and bulging appearance seen in otitis media.