- The client/caregiver can define otitis media.
- The middle ear is an air space containing three small bones (malleus, incus, and stapes).
- The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear cavity with the throat. In children, this tube is short and horizontal. Transmission of infection to the middle ear is common.
- Otitis media is a bacterial or viral infection in the middle ear.
- The client/caregiver can list common signs to watch for when considering otitis media.
- Unusual irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
- Tugging or pulling at one or both ears
- Fever
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Loss of balance
- Signs of hearing difficulty
- Unresponsiveness to quiet sounds
- Sitting too close to the television
- Being inattentive
- The client/caregiver can list measures to prevent or manage otitis media.
- Avoid contact with sick playmates.
- Avoid environmental tobacco smoke.
- Children who nurse from a bottle while lying down appear to develop otitis media more often.
- Take medication as ordered and complete all medication cycle.
- The client/caregiver can list possible complications from otitis media.
- Infection can spread to the brain, if untreated.
- Hearing loss, possible permanent
- Interfere with speech and language development
Resources
American Speech-Language-Hearing Associationwww.asha.org
References
Cohen, B. J., & Taylor, J. J. (2005). Memmler’s the human body in health and disease (10th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.Perry, A., & Potter, P. (2006). Clinical nursing skills & technique. St. Louis: Mosby Inc.Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott
Credits
Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.www.jbpub.com
