Clinical case study

Otitis media: clarifying the role of antibiotics

Weigh up the need for antibiotics with two different cases of acute otitis media in this free case study.

  • Cost: free

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Otitis media antibiotics
 

Accreditation

It is recommended that 1 hour be recorded for the purposes of self-directed pharmacist CPD.

 

About

Two children with otitis media – are antibiotics required for either?

Oliver, a 5-year-old boy with a cold, has been complaining of a sore left ear since last night.

Charlotte, a 14-month-old girl who has also had a cold for several days, has been very irritable overnight. She woke up more lethargic than normal and is refusing to eat.

How would you assess these patients? What would your initial treatment recommendation be? How would you weigh up the need for antibiotics?

Complete this online case study to receive instant feedback on your responses and compare your approach with your peers. Includes expert commentary provided by Professor Chris Del Mar.

 

By completing this case study you will be able to:

  • outline recommended pharmacological management of acute otitis media (AOM)
  • reassure patients and/or their carers that in most cases, AOM can be adequately managed without antibiotics
  • identify appropriate prevention strategies for AOM
  • recognise when antibiotic therapy may be needed in patients with AOM.