Question

A 4-year-old Aboriginal boy from a remote community presents with 3 days of ear pain and fever. Otoscopy shows a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane with purulent effusion. He is otherwise stable. According to Therapeutic Guidelines and remote practice recommendations, what is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Oral amoxycillin for 5-7 days in addition to analgesia

Answer

Analgesia only, as most acute otitis media resolves spontaneously

Answer

Immediate referral to ENT for tympanostomy tube insertion

Answer

Topical ciprofloxacin ear drops alone

Answer

No treatment is needed because recurrent otitis media is common in Aboriginal children

Practice question