Which instrument is used to examine the ear canal and tympanic membrane?

Which instrument is used to examine the ear canal and tympanic membrane?

• A. Ophthalmoscope
• B. Sigmoidoscope
• C. Otoscope
• D. Speculum

Answer: (C)

Examining the ear canal and tympanic membrane requires a device that provides light and magnification to visualize the ear’s canal and eardrum. The otoscope is specifically designed for this purpose; it illuminates the canal and allows you to see the tympanic membrane clearly, often with a disposable speculum to fit the ear canal. The other options serve different parts of the body or functions: an ophthalmoscope is for examining the eye, a sigmoidoscope for the lower GI tract, and a speculum alone is a dilating tool rather than a viewing instrument. So the otoscope is the best choice because it is purpose-built to inspect the ear canal and tympanic membrane.

Examining the ear canal and tympanic membrane requires a device that provides light and magnification to visualize the ear’s canal and eardrum. The otoscope is specifically designed for this purpose; it illuminates the canal and allows you to see the tympanic membrane clearly, often with a disposable speculum to fit the ear canal. The other options serve different parts of the body or functions: an ophthalmoscope is for examining the eye, a sigmoidoscope for the lower GI tract, and a speculum alone is a dilating tool rather than a viewing instrument. So the otoscope is the best choice because it is purpose-built to inspect the ear canal and tympanic membrane.