Which device is used to visually assess the tympanic membrane?

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

Answer: (B)

Visual inspection of the tympanic membrane requires an instrument designed for the ear canal. An otoscope provides illumination and magnification to view the ear canal and eardrum, allowing you to assess color, translucency, contour, and landmarks such as the cone of light and the malleus handle. To use it, gently pull the outer ear to straighten the canal and insert an appropriately sized speculum, then inspect for signs of infection, fluid behind the membrane, or perforation. Other instruments serve different purposes: a stethoscope listens to heart and lung sounds, an ophthalmoscope examines the interior of the eye, and an otolaryngoscope is a broader ENT instrument not typically used for a quick tympanic membrane check in basic EMS practice.