A 2-year-old Aboriginal boy from a remote community presents with persistent bilateral middle ear effusions and hearing loss documented on audiology. ...

Question

A 2-year-old Aboriginal boy from a remote community presents with persistent bilateral middle ear effusions and hearing loss documented on audiology. He has had several episodes of acute otitis media. According to Australian guidelines, what is the most appropriate management priority?

Accepted Answer

Early referral to ENT/audiology and consideration of tympanostomy tubes to prevent long-term hearing loss

Answer

Reassurance only, as effusions will resolve spontaneously

Answer

Immediate insertion of grommets without further assessment

Answer

Avoid immunisations that may worsen ear infections

Answer

Commence long-term oral decongestants

au-amc MCQ (SBA): Otitis media with effusion in Aboriginal children

A 2-year-old Aboriginal boy from a remote community presents with persistent bilateral middle ear effusions and hearing loss documented on audiology. He has had several episodes of acute otitis media. According to Australian guidelines, what is the most appropriate management priority?