A 6-year-old child has otitis media and is being treated with amoxicillin [Amoxil] and ibuprofen [Motrin]. The child's parent calls the nurse to report that the child's pain is not relieved with the ibuprofen. The child is afebrile and there is no drainage from either ear. The nurse will discuss which additional treatment with the child's provider?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For children over age 5 years, the AAP guidelines recommend topical anesthetic ear drops for pain relief; this is contraindicated if the TM is perforated. This child does not have drainage, indicating intact eardrums. Adding another oral analgesic will not be as effective as a topical anesthetic. The child is afebrile, so there is no concern about a resistant infection. Tympanostomy is not indicated.

A 6-Year-Old Child Has Otitis Media and Is Being Treated