A little birdie can facilitate pediatric ear exams

When checking the ears of an infant or small child, I tell him or her that I am searching for a rare and beautiful bird. I get very close to the ear and make a soft whistling noise before gently putting the otoscope into the ear canal. The patients love it and remain still and quiet as I whistle for the birdie. — Patricia A. Ouellette, FNP, Scotts Valley, Calif. (160-6)

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