A client is being seen in the pediatric clinic for a middle ear infection. The client's mother reports that when the client develops an upper respiratory infection, an ear infection seems quick to follow. What contributes to this event? a. eustachian tubes.
b. genetics.
c. oropharynx.
d. epiglottis.

a. eustachian tubes.

Explanation:

An ear infection is usually caused due to viral infection occurring in the upper respiratory tract. The respiratory infection later cause inflammation and swelling in the Eustachian tubes of the ears. The Eustachian tube runs from the ears behind the nose to the upper part of the throat. The Eustachian tube maintains the pressure in the ear.

Due to infection in the Eustachian tubes the tubes appears swollen, blocked and fluid get filled with the eardrum. This results in the infection and inflammation of the middle ear.