The Nurse Notes All These Assessment Data When Examining a Patient's

question 21

Multiple Choice

The nurse notes all these assessment data when examining a patient's auditory canal and tympanic membrane. Which one is of most concern?

• A) Cerumen is present in the auditory canal.
• B) The tympanum is bluish-tinged.
• C) There is a cone of light visible.
• D) The skin in the ear canal is dry and scaly.

---

Definitions:

Circadian Rhythms

The natural, internal processes that regulate the sleep-wake cycle and repeat roughly every 24 hours.

Sleep-Wake Cycles

The natural cycle of sleep and wakefulness in a 24-hour period, regulated by the body's internal clock.

Circadian Rhythm

The inherent biological mechanism that controls the cycle of sleeping and waking, recurring approximately every 24 hours.

Phi Phenomenon

An optical illusion where stationary objects shown in rapid succession, such as flashing lights, appear to be in motion.