Which assessment finding leads the nurse to question the physician's order for irrigation of the patient's ear?

A) The patient has some short soft hairs present on the pinna.
B) A large amount of cerumen is noted in the patient's ear canal.
C) The patient has ear pain with purulent drainage in the ear canal.
D) The patient's tympanic membrane is a translucent pearl-gray color.

Purulent Drainage

Thick, yellow, green, or brown discharge from a wound indicating infection.

Tympanic Membrane

Also known as the eardrum, it is a thin membrane that vibrates in response to sound waves, playing a crucial role in the auditory system.

Cerumen

Scientific term for earwax, a natural substance produced in the ear canal that protects the ear from dust, microorganisms, and irritation.