The nurse is preparing to assess the client's ears. How should the pinna be positioned when using an otoscope to examine an adult's ear?

A. Pulling the pinna forward and up does not effectively straighten the adult ear canal. The external auditory canal in adults has a natural upward and forward curve, so pulling forward does not properly align the canal for visualization of the tympanic membrane. B. In adults (and children older than 3 years), the nurse should pull the pinna up and back when inserting the otoscope. This maneuver straightens the S-shaped external auditory canal, allowing clear visualization of the tympanic membrane. Proper positioning reduces discomfort and prevents injury during the examination. C. Pulling the pinna down and back is appropriate for infants and young children under 3 years of age. In this age group, the ear canal is shorter and more horizontal. Using this technique on an adult would not properly align the canal. D. Leaving the pinna in its natural position does not straighten the ear canal, making visualization of the tympanic membrane more difficult and potentially uncomfortable for the client.