Template
Acute otitis externa
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LateralityChoose oneFirst line
Diagnosis based onChoose any
Tympanic membraneChoose one
FindingsChoose any
Ear dropsChoose one
ProceduresChoose any
CounselingChoose any
Follow-upChoose one
Follow-up reasonChoose anyJoins the line above
Counseling
Pain usually improves within a couple of days of starting the drops. Recommended supportive care with tylenol or motrin as needed for pain. Use the drops for the full course, even after feeling better, and do not put cotton swabs or anything else in the ear. Return precautions given including worsening pain, swelling or redness spreading to the outer ear or face, fever, new symptoms, prolonged symptoms, worsening symptoms, and other concerns. Caregiver expressed understanding and agreement with plan. Answered all questions.
What the sources cover
- Diagnostic signs
- TM status and tympanostomy tube
- Pain assessment and analgesics
- No systemic antibiotics unless spread or host factors
- Topical therapy, no preferred agent
- Non-ototoxic drops with perforation or tube
- Drop administration teaching
- Aural toilet, wick
- Reassess at 48-72 h if no response
- Avoid swimming, keep dry
Show 1 more
- No cotton swabs; full course
Used to decide, kept out of the note
- Differential (AOM, furunculosis, otomycosis, zoster, contact dermatitis)
- Anesthetic drops not recommended
- Age < 2 years