A Patient Reports Ear Pain After Being Hit in the Head

A patient reports ear pain after being hit in the head with a baseball. The provider notes a perforated tympanic membrane. What is the recommended treatment?

A) Order antibiotic ear drops if signs of infection occur.
B) Prescribe analgesics and follow up in 1 to 2 days.
C) Reassure the patient that this will heal without problems.
D) Refer the patient to an otolaryngologist for evaluation.