When Assessing the Tympanic Membrane of an Older Patient, the Nurse

Multiple Choice

When assessing the tympanic membrane of an older patient, the nurse notes the presence of two jagged white lines. What best describes these findings?

A) The tympanic membrane is preparing to rupture.
B) The tympanic member has become infected.
C) The white lines indicate a past history of a tympanic rupture.
D) The presence of these markings is a normal finding.