Tympanic Membrane and Thyroid Gland Week 8
Using the South University Online Library or the Internet, research the tympanic membrane and the thyroid gland. Based on your findings, create a 5- to 6-page Microsoft Word document that includes:
Information about a minimum of two health assessment histories.
The possible findings for the tympanic membrane.
Information on how to examine the thyroid gland using both the anterior and posterior methods.
A concise note in the subjective, objective, assessment, and plan (SOAP) format with each patient’s encountered findings.
For a review of SOAP notes:
SOAP Documentaion
Information about laboratory tests that may be used for screening clients and the expected normal levels for each test.
Support your responses with examples.
On a separate references page, cite all sources using Ace homework tutors – APA format.
Use this Ace homework tutors – APA Citation Helper as a convenient reference for properly citing resources.
This handout will provide you the details of formatting your essay using Ace homework tutors – APA style.
Tympanic Membrane and Thyroid Gland Assessment: Exploring Health Histories and Examination Techniques
Abstract
This article delves into the comprehensive assessment of two crucial anatomical structures – the tympanic membrane and the thyroid gland. The research sheds light on health assessment histories, potential findings related to the tympanic membrane, techniques for examining the thyroid gland, and the utilization of SOAP notes for effective documentation. Additionally, the article discusses relevant laboratory tests for screening clients and the expected normal levels for each test. Throughout this exploration, scholarly sources and peer-reviewed literature from 2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online to 2023 are utilized to ensure accuracy and credibility.
Introduction
The assessment of human health involves a meticulous evaluation of various anatomical structures and physiological processes. This article focuses on two key components – the tympanic membrane and the thyroid gland. A thorough understanding of health histories, examination techniques, and diagnostic measures is crucial for healthcare practitioners to provide accurate care and make informed clinical decisions.
Health Assessment Histories
Gathering comprehensive health assessment histories is a cornerstone of patient care. Two illustrative cases are presented below:
Case 1: Middle Ear Infection
Ms. A, a 30-year-old female, complains of ear pain, hearing loss, and fluid discharge. She reports recent cold symptoms and exposure to secondhand smoke.
Case 2: Thyroid Dysfunction
Mr. B, a 45-year-old male, presents with fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold temperatures. He mentions a family history of thyroid disorders.
Tympanic Membrane Assessment
The tympanic membrane assessment involves the evaluation of the ear’s integrity and potential abnormalities. Possible findings include:
Normal Tympanic Membrane: A translucent and pearly gray appearance with visible landmarks, such as the handle of the malleus and the umbo.
Acute Otitis Media: Redness, bulging, and decreased mobility of the tympanic membrane, often accompanied by pain and fluid accumulation.
Otitis Externa: Swelling, redness, and discharge in the external ear canal, often associated with itching and pain.
Perforation: A hole or tear in the tympanic membrane, leading to potential hearing loss and susceptibility to infections.
Thyroid Gland Examination
The thyroid gland examination is crucial for detecting thyroid dysfunction. The anterior and posterior methods are utilized:
Anterior Method: The practitioner stands in front of the patient and palpates the thyroid gland for size, tenderness, and nodules.
Posterior Method: The practitioner stands behind the patient and uses a similar palpation technique to assess the posterior aspect of the thyroid gland.
SOAP Note Documentation
Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan (SOAP) notes are an effective way to document patient encounters. Examples of SOAP notes for the aforementioned cases are as follows:
Case 1 – SOAP Note:
Subjective: Ms. A reports ear pain and hearing loss following a cold. She mentions exposure to secondhand smoke.
Objective: Tympanic membrane examination reveals redness, bulging, and decreased mobility. Fluid discharge noted.
Assessment: Suspected acute otitis media.
Plan: Prescribe antibiotics, recommend analgesics, and educate on smoking cessation.
Case 2 – SOAP Note:
Subjective: Mr. B presents with fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity. Family history of thyroid disorders mentioned.
Objective: Palpation of thyroid gland indicates enlargement and nodularity.
Assessment: Possible thyroid dysfunction; further testing required.
Plan: Order thyroid function tests, provide dietary recommendations, and schedule follow-up.
Laboratory Tests and Normal Levels
Laboratory tests play a pivotal role in diagnosing and monitoring health conditions. Common thyroid function tests include:
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Normal range: 0.4 – 4.0 mIU/L.
Free Thyroxine (FT4): Normal range: 0.8 – 2.8 ng/dL.
Total Triiodothyronine (T3): Normal range: 80 – 200 ng/dL.
Conclusion
The assessment of the tympanic membrane and the thyroid gland is integral to effective healthcare practice. Thorough health histories, meticulous examinations, SOAP note documentation, and appropriate laboratory tests collectively contribute to accurate diagnosis and tailored patient care. As healthcare continues to evolve, practitioners must remain adept at utilizing evidence-based practices to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
References
R. B. (2018: 2024 – Write My Essay For Me | Essay Writing Service For Your Papers Online). Ear Disorders: Assessment and Management. American Family Physician, 97(6), 398-404.
R. S. (2018: 2024 – Write My Essay For Me | Essay Writing Service For Your Papers Online). Thyroid Function Testing. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 103(3), 963-977.
Ralli, M., Greco, A., de Vincentiis, M., & Ralli, G. (2017). Diagnosis and Management of Acute Otitis Media. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 17(1), 7.
Ochs, N., Auer, R., Bauer, D. C., Nanchen, D., Gussekloo, J., Cornuz, J., … & Rodondi, N. (2018: 2024 – Write My Essay For Me | Essay Writing Service For Your Papers Online). Meta-analysis: subclinical thyroid dysfunction and the risk for coronary heart disease and mortality. Annals of Internal Medicine, 148(11), 832-845.
