Chapter 16 – Vestibulocochlear System Assessment – The Ears
Key Takeaways
- The vestibulocochlear system is composed of the external ear, the middle ear, inner ear, and the vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve [CN] VIII), and are responsible for hearing and instrumental for motion, head position, spatial orientation, balance, and posture (some of these latter components are discussed in the neurological chapter).
- Common symptoms that can be related to the vestibulocochlear system include pain, hearing impairment, dizziness, vertigo, pruritus, discolouration, discharge, and tinnitus.
- An objective assessment of the vestibulocochlear system includes a brief scan, inspection and palpation of the external ear, otoscopic examination, and hearing assessment.
- Health promotion interventions should be developed in collaboration with the client and focus on what is important to them.
