Question

A 20-month-old Aboriginal boy from a remote community presents with fever, irritability and purulent discharge from his right ear for 24 hours. Otoscopy shows a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane with otorrhoea. This is his third ear infection in 6 months. According to Australian otitis media guidelines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, what is the most appropriate management today?

Accepted Answer

Immediate oral amoxicillin at appropriate weight-based dosing

Answer

Reassure, provide analgesia only and review in 3 days

Answer

Topical acetic acid drops alone

Answer

Advise watchful waiting because repeated infections are expected in this age group

Answer

No treatment now, arrange hearing assessment only

Practice question