A 2-year-old girl presents with 3 days of fever (up to 39 °C) and ear pain. She is otherwise well, eating slightly less but drinking adequately. Otosc...

Question

A 2-year-old girl presents with 3 days of fever (up to 39 °C) and ear pain. She is otherwise well, eating slightly less but drinking adequately. Otoscopic examination shows a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane with decreased mobility. She has no chronic conditions. According to CPS guidance, what is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Watchful waiting with analgesia and safety-netting

Answer

Immediate high-dose amoxicillin for 10 days

Answer

Immediate macrolide therapy

Answer

Topical antibiotic ear drops only

Answer

Immediate tympanocentesis and culture

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Acute otitis media