Question

A 3-year-old boy presents with acute ear pain and fever 38.7 °C. Otoscopy shows a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane with purulent effusion. He is systemically well and otherwise healthy. According to CPS guidance, what is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Watchful waiting with analgesia and a delayed antibiotic prescription if no improvement in 48 hours

Answer

Immediate high-dose amoxicillin for 10 days for all cases

Answer

Immediate dual antibiotic therapy with amoxicillin-clavulanate and azithromycin

Answer

Topical antibiotic ear drops alone

Answer

Oral prednisone to reduce inflammation

Practice question

A 3-year-old boy presents with acute ear pain and fever 38.7 °C. Otoscopy shows a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane with purulent effusion. He is systemically well and otherwise healthy. According to CPS guidance, what is the most appropriate initial management?