Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

The tympanic membrane, commonly known as the eardrum, is a thin, cone-shaped membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. It plays a crucial role in the auditory system by vibrating in response to sound waves. When sound waves hit the eardrum, these vibrations are transmitted to the ossicles (the tiny bones in the middle ear), which further amplify the sound and send it to the inner ear.

Understanding the function of the tympanic membrane is essential for anyone studying surgical technology, particularly in surgeries related to ear health or hearing restoration. The term "eardrum" is frequently used in both medical and educational contexts to describe the tympanic membrane due to its drum-like appearance and function in hearing.

The other options do not accurately refer to the tympanic membrane. "Ear tube" refers to small tubes that may be inserted into the eardrum to help drain fluid and prevent buildup, "ear canal" describes the passageway that leads to the eardrum, and "earlobe" is a completely different anatomical structure that does not relate to hearing. Understanding these distinctions can enhance comprehension of ear anatomy and function in surgical settings.