NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The malleus, often referred to as the "hammer," is the prominent bone observed during an otoscope examination because it is the largest of the three ossicles in the middle ear. When using an otoscope, the practitioner typically views the tympanic membrane (eardrum) in which the malleus is prominently attached. The handle of the malleus can be seen extending downward from the eardrum, making it a key landmark during the examination. Its distinctive shape and size ensure that it is the most visible of the ossicles, facilitating the assessment of any potential abnormalities in the middle ear region.

In contrast, the incus, known as the "anvil," and the stapes, known as the "stirrup," are smaller bones that are located deeper in the ear structure and are not as easily visualized during a standard otoscopic examination. The occipital bone, on the other hand, is part of the skull and is not associated with the ear's anatomy, making it irrelevant in this context. The positioning and prominence of the malleus during otoscopic evaluation make it essential for both diagnostic purposes and understanding the structure of the middle ear.