Otitis Media
Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, common in children
Definition
Otitis media is inflammation or infection of the middle ear, typically behind the tympanic membrane. It is most common in children ages 6 months-2 years due to short, horizontal eustachian tubes.
Signs and Symptoms
- Ear pain (ear-pulling in infants)
- Fever, irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
- Bulging, red tympanic membrane
- Decreased hearing
- Drainage if TM ruptures
Treatment
Watchful waiting for 48 to 72 hours in older children, or antibiotics (amoxicillin first-line) for severe cases, children under 2, or bilateral disease, such as analgesics (acetaminophen, ibuprofen). Recurrent cases may require tympanostomy tubes (PE tubes).
Prevention
- Feed infants upright (bottle propping increases risk)
- Avoid smoking exposure
- Breastfeed when possible
- Keep vaccinations current (pneumococcal, influenza)
NCLEX Relevance
Upright feeding, avoid smoke exposure, complete antibiotic course.