An 18-Month-Old Child with a 24-Hour History of Fever and Otalgia

An 18-month-old child with a 24-hour history of fever and otalgia is seen in the clinic. The child's parents tell the provider that the child was inconsolable during the night. The provider examines the child and notes a bulging, immobile, erythematous tympanic membrane. What action will the provider take to provide the child with effective care?

A) Institute watchful waiting and ask the parent to return to the clinic if the child's symptoms worsen.
B) Discuss a referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist for follow-up treatment.
C) Advise the parent to give analgesics for 3 days while observing for worsening symptoms.
D) Prescribe amoxicillin at 45 mg/kg/dose twice daily.