Qualified Medication Aides (QMA) Practice Exam

What is cortisporin otic used for?

1. Throat infection

2. Ear infection

3. Eye infection

4. Skin infection

The correct answer is: Ear infection

Cortisporin otic is primarily used for treating ear infections. It is a combination medication that contains an antibiotic (often neomycin), a steroid (usually hydrocortisone), and sometimes an antifungal agent, which work together to reduce inflammation and eliminate bacterial or fungal infections in the ear canal. This formulation specifically addresses conditions such as otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear, which is an infection of the outer ear canal. The presence of the steroid component helps reduce swelling and discomfort, making it particularly effective in treating inflammation associated with ear infections. In contrast, the other options relate to different types of infections that are not the primary indications for cortisporin otic use. For instance, throat infections would require different antimicrobial agents, while eye infections would typically be treated with eye-specific formulations, and skin infections would necessitate topical or systemic treatments suitable for dermatological conditions.