Question

A 3-year-old Aboriginal girl from a remote community has had persistent bilateral middle ear effusions for over 3 months with documented conductive hearing loss on audiology. She has a history of recurrent otitis media. What is the most appropriate management priority?

Accepted Answer

Refer for urgent ENT assessment for possible grommet insertion and hearing support

Answer

Reassure and review in 12 months

Answer

Start long-term oral antibiotics for 6 months

Answer

No action is required; this is normal at her age

Answer

Use ear candles to clear fluid

Practice question

A 3-year-old Aboriginal girl from a remote community has had persistent bilateral middle ear effusions for over 3 months with documented conductive hearing loss on audiology. She has a history of recurrent otitis media. What is the most appropriate management priority?