Which statement is incorrect?

Appeared in: P.CHO-2019

Explanation

The statement 'Ear ossicles are 2 bones' is factually incorrect.
The middle ear contains three auditory ossicles, which are the smallest bones in the human body.
These three bones are the Malleus (hammer), Incus (anvil), and Stapes (stirrup).
They form a chain that transmits sound vibrations from the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to the inner ear.

Option B: This statement is correct. The tympanic membrane is the medical term for the eardrum, a key structure that separates the external ear from the middle ear.
Option C: This statement is correct. The cochlea is the auditory portion of the inner ear, responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve impulses.
Option D: This statement is correct. The pinna (or auricle) is the visible, cartilaginous part of the ear on the outside of the head and is a component of the external ear.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the human ear as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the number and function of the ossicles is crucial for diagnosing hearing loss. Damage or fixation of these bones (e.g., in otosclerosis) causes conductive hearing loss, which is often surgically correctable.
Middle ear infections (otitis media) are common, especially in children. Fluid buildup can impede the movement of the ossicles, leading to temporary hearing loss.
What if? If a patient has a fracture of the temporal bone that disrupts the ossicular chain, they would present with sudden conductive hearing loss on the affected side. A CT scan would be needed to visualize the dislocation or fracture of the malleus, incus, or stapes.

How to Approach the Question

First, recognize that the question asks for the 'incorrect' statement. This means three of the options will be true, and one will be false.
Read each option carefully and evaluate its factual accuracy based on your knowledge of ear anatomy.
Option A states there are 2 ear ossicles. Recall or look up the anatomy of the middle ear. You will find there are three: malleus, incus, and stapes.
Option B equates the tympanic membrane with the eardrum. This is a common anatomical synonym.
Option C places the cochlea in the inner ear. This is correct; it's the main organ of hearing.
Option D places the pinna in the external ear. This is also correct; it's the visible outer part.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Anatomy of the human ear
Stem keywords: Ear ossicles, Tympanic membrane, Cochlea, Pinna, external ear, inner ear
Lead-in keywords: incorrect
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks for the INCORRECT statement.

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Practise the full P.CHO-2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.