The nurse is examining a patient's ears and notices cerumen in the external canal. Which of these statements about cerumen is correct?

A. Cerumen does not transmit sound; it is a protective substance that traps dust, debris, and microorganisms, helping to keep the ear canal clean. B. The presence of cerumen is not necessarily indicative of poor hygiene. It is a normal bodily secretion that serves an important protective function. C. Cerumen (earwax) serves to protect the ear canal from infection and irritation and lubricates the ear canal, helping to prevent dryness. D. Wet, honey-colored cerumen is typically normal and not a sign of infection. If cerumen is associated with infection, it may appear yellowish, thick, or accompanied by other symptoms like pain or discharge.