A 16-year-old client with a history of chronic ear infections when younger comes to the clinic for a health exam. No ear pain, vertigo, or hearing loss is reported during history taking. Inspection of the tympanic membranes (TM) reveals the presence of dense white patches on the TMs in both ears. Both TMs are a translucent gray with a light reflex at 5:00. All landmarks are visible. Based on these findings, which action should the nurse take next?

Choice A reason: The white patches are located on the tympanic membrane, not in the external canal, and are not related to wax buildup. Cleaning would not affect these findings. Choice B reason: Fungal infections typically present with debris or discoloration in the external canal, not dense white patches on the TM. These patches are more consistent with tympanosclerosis. Choice C reason: Dense white patches on the TM in a client with a history of chronic ear infections are likely tympanosclerosis, a benign scarring condition. If there are no symptoms or hearing loss, documentation is appropriate. Choice D reason: Referral is not necessary unless there are symptoms of hearing loss or other abnormalities. The current findings do not warrant audiological evaluation.