What manifestation should a nurse expect in a client diagnosed with mastoiditis?

Mastoiditis is an infection and inflammation of the mastoid process, which is the area of bone located just behind the ear. When a patient has mastoiditis, one of the hallmark signs is swelling or redness behind the ear, as this area can become inflamed due to the infection spreading from the middle ear to the mastoid air cells. This manifestation occurs because infection in the middle ear can lead to inflammation and fluid accumulation in the mastoid bone structure, resulting in visible swelling.

While fever and chills can be common symptoms of infection, and other issues like jaw pain or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) can occur, swelling behind the affected ear is the most characteristic sign directly associated with mastoiditis. It is important for healthcare providers to assess for such physical signs to confirm the diagnosis. Thus, expecting swelling behind the ear in a client diagnosed with mastoiditis is consistent with the pathophysiology of the condition.