Question

After a stapedectomy for otosclerosis, which home care instruction does the nurse give the client?

a) Avoid any head movement for a week
b) Resume normal activities immediately
c) Clean the ear canal with cotton swabs daily
d) Limit fluid intake to prevent ear pressure

Answer 1

After a stapedectomy, the patient should avoid strenuous activities, nose blowing, rapid head movements, getting water in the ear, and report any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

After a stapedectomy for otosclerosis, it is important for the client to understand the appropriate home care instructions to ensure proper healing and to prevent complications. To prevent undue pressure or trauma on the newly operated inner ear, the nurse typically instructs the patient to:

• Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting
• Refrain from blowing the nose with force
• Keep water out of the ear during bathing and showering
• Avoid rapid head movements
• Report any symptoms of infection or hearing changes

These measures help to protect the ear, maintain the integrity of the surgical site, and reduce the risk of increased pressure in the ear, which could disrupt healing.