Otitis Media- EXAM 3

Question 1

What is Otitis Media

Answer 1

A common childhood illness, known as an ear infection

Question 2

What are some risk factors

Answer 2

Being under the age of 2
Participating in daycare, S or L
Having seasonal allergies
Exposure to poor air quality, smoking in the house

Question 3

What history would you ask for when examining the patient

Answer 3

Any previous ear infections
Any recent respiratory infection
The medications their on
Any changes/When did it start happening
Have they been eating and drinking normally
Are they immunized up to date

Question 4

How can you prevent ear infections

Answer 4

Breastfeed no longer then 1 year
Bottle feed in upright position
Keep children up to date with immunizations
Avoid air pollution, especially second hand smoke
If in daycare, use a smaller or private one to decrease chances of getting infections

Question 5

Clinical manifestations

Answer 5

Mild to severe pain
Slightly elevated temperature
Diminished hearing or vitiligo
Bright red, bulging tympanic membrane, some discharge

Question 6

What would you assess

Answer 6

Vital signs, Lungs and Throat, Ear, Tympanic membrane
Ask parents if there has been fever, fussiness or pulling of the ear

Question 7

Implementations

Answer 7

Use of antibiotics :Amoxicillin is used but if penicillin allergy then cephalosporin or trimethorpin
Given for 5-10 days
Importance of completing antibiotic doses!!
Pain relief: Antihistamine or heat application to reduce symptoms
Elevating head
Keep ears clean, decrease swimming pool time
Avoid exposure to upper respiratory infections