Which instrument is used to examine the ear?

Which instrument is used to examine the ear?

• A. Otoscope
• B. Stethoscope
• C. Ophthalmoscope
• D. Endoscope

Answer: (A)

The instrument used to examine the ear is designed specifically to visualize the ear canal and the eardrum. An otoscope has a light and a magnifying view through a small cone (speculum) that fits into the ear canal, allowing you to inspect for wax, infection, inflammation, or perforation of the tympanic membrane. This purpose-built design makes it the go-to tool for ear examinations. Compare it to other common instruments: a stethoscope listens to heart and lung sounds rather than looking inside the body; an ophthalmoscope is used to examine the interior of the eye; an endoscope refers to a broader category of instruments designed to inspect internal passages or cavities, but isn’t the standard device for a routine ear check.

The instrument used to examine the ear is designed specifically to visualize the ear canal and the eardrum. An otoscope has a light and a magnifying view through a small cone (speculum) that fits into the ear canal, allowing you to inspect for wax, infection, inflammation, or perforation of the tympanic membrane. This purpose-built design makes it the go-to tool for ear examinations.

Compare it to other common instruments: a stethoscope listens to heart and lung sounds rather than looking inside the body; an ophthalmoscope is used to examine the interior of the eye; an endoscope refers to a broader category of instruments designed to inspect internal passages or cavities, but isn’t the standard device for a routine ear check.