Question

The nurse is preparing a client for a tympanoplasty. To restore the normal \(\mathrm{pH}\) of the ear, the physician usually orders irrigations with a solution of sterile water and: A. Vinegar B. Baking soda C. Hydrogen peroxide D. Glycerin

Short answer

Answer: Vinegar.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the pH scale and ear pH

The pH scale is used to measure acidity and alkalinity of substances. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Values below 7 are considered acidic, and values above 7 are considered alkaline or basic. The normal pH of human ear ranges between 4.5 and 5.5, which is slightly acidic.

Identify the effect of each substance on pH

We need to determine the effect of each substance on the pH of the solution: A. Vinegar - Vinegar is diluted acetic acid, with a pH range of 2.4 to 3.4, which is acidic. B. Baking soda - Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, with a pH of around 8.3, which is alkaline. C. Hydrogen peroxide - Hydrogen peroxide has a pH of around 4.5, which is slightly acidic. D. Glycerin - Glycerin has a pH of around 5.5 to 7, which is near-neutral to slightly acidic.

Choose the appropriate substance

Based on the properties of the given substances and the desired pH range for the ear, the most appropriate substance to mix with sterile water for irrigations is vinegar (option A). Vinegar, being acidic, can help restore the normal pH of the ear, which is slightly acidic.