The direction of gentle auricle traction for newborn otoscopy is?

• A. Anterolateral
• B. Anterosuperior
• C. Posterosuperior
• D. Inferior

Answer: (C)

The key idea is to straighten the external auditory canal so you can see the tympanic membrane clearly during newborn otoscopy. In newborns, the canal orientation is such that a gentle posterosuperior pull on the pinna—toward the back and slightly upward—best aligns the canal with the otoscope. This reduces canal angulation and provides a clearer view of the tympanic membrane without applying unnecessary force. Directions that pull the pinna in other ways tend to keep the canal curved or misaligned, making visualization harder and increasing the risk of discomfort or injury. So, a gentle posterosuperior traction is the most effective for newborns.