FOREIGN OBJECTS IN THE EAR medical surgical nursing pptx

Sensory problems

1. FOREIGN OBJECTS IN THE EAR BY MARY

2. Foreign objects in the ear are any external items that have been inserted or lodged within the ear canal or the structures of the ear that do not belong there naturally. Foreign objects in the ear are common reasons for emergency room visits, especially in children. The majority of these things are harmless. Some are however extremely uncomfortable (insects or sharp objects) and some can rapidly produce an infection e.g food,requiring emergency treatment.

3. Types of Foreign Objects in the Ear 1.Inanimate Objects: These include beads, small toys, pebbles, cotton swabs, erasers, and other small items. 2.Organic Materials: Food particles, seeds, and other organic matter. 3.Insects: Bugs that may crawl or fly into the ear canal. Symptoms Ear pain or discomfort Hearing loss or muffled hearing Sensation of fullness in the ear Itching or irritation Drainage or discharge (in case of infection or irritation) Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)

4. Management The management of foreign objects in the ear varies depending on the type and location of the object. 1. Assessment History Taking: Ask about the type of object, how and when it was inserted, and any attempts made to remove it. Note symptoms like pain, hearing loss, discharge, or dizziness. Physical Examination: Inspect the ear using an otoscope to locate and identify the object. Check for signs of infection, trauma, or perforation of the eardrum. Pain Assessment: Evaluate the severity, location, and nature of pain using a pain scale. Hearing Assessment: Assess the level of hearing impairment through patient reports and basic hearing tests.

5. 2. Nursing diagnosis a)Acute Pain related to the presence of foreign objects in the ear causing pressure and irritation as evidenced by reports of ear pain, grimacing and guarding behavior. b) Impaired Sensory Perception (Auditory) related to the obstruction of the ear caused by foreign object as evidenced by reports of hearing loss,muffled hearing and inability to hear sounds clearly. c)Risk for Infection related to presence of a foreign object causing abrasions or breaks in the skin, potential introduction of pathogens. d) Anxiety related to presence of a foreign object causing discomfort and uncertainty about the outcome, fear of pain during removal. e) Risk for injury related to potential for further ear trauma or perforation of the eardrum during attempts to remove the foreign object.

6. 3. Planning and goals Relieve pain and discomfort. Safely remove the foreign object. Prevent and manage infection. Reduce anxiety and provide emotional support. 4. Interventions a)Acute Pain Administer prescribed analgesics as needed. Apply a warm compress to the affected ear if appropriate.

7. b)Foreign objects removal techniques Inanimate Objects: Irrigation: For small, smooth objects, gentle irrigation with warm water can help flush out the object. Avoid if the object is organic (like seeds) which might swell. Suction: Medical suction devices can sometimes be used to extract the object. Manual Extraction: Using specialized instruments like forceps, hooks, or loops to carefully remove the object. Insects: Immobilization: If an insect is alive, immobilize it first by pouring mineral oil, baby oil, or lidocaine drops into the ear. Extraction: Once immobilized, the insect can often be removed with irrigation or manual extraction tools .

8. Organic Materials: Irrigation: Similar to inanimate objects, though care must be taken as some organic materials can swell when wet. Manual Extraction: Often the preferred method if the material is easily accessible. c)Infection Control Use aseptic techniques during removal procedures. Monitor for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or fever. Administer prescribed antibiotic ear drops if indicated. d)Anxiety Reduction Provide clear explanations about the procedure and what to expect. Offer reassurance and support throughout the process. Allow the patient to ask questions and express concerns.

9. e)Safety and Injury Prevention Ensure the patient remains still during the procedure to avoid injury. Use appropriate tools and techniques to minimize the risk of trauma. Refer to a specialist if the object is deeply embedded or if there is a risk of perforation. Post-removal Care Inspection: Post-removal, inspect the ear to ensure no residual fragments remain. Symptom Monitoring: Monitor for signs of infection or ongoing symptoms. Follow-Up: Advise a follow-up visit to ensure the ear is healing properly.

10. 5.Evaluation Assess pain relief and comfort level post-intervention. Evaluate the success of the foreign object removal. Monitor for any signs of infection or complications. Precautions Avoid Aggressive Attempts: Repeated, forceful attempts can push the object deeper or cause damage to the ear canal or tympanic membrane (eardrum). Professional Assistance: If initial attempts are unsuccessful or if there is risk of complications, refer to an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist). Preventive Advice Education: Educate parents and children about the dangers of inserting objects into ears.

11. THE END …. ANY QUESTIONS???