Clinical Pathway for Evaluation/Treatment of Suspected
Uncomplicated Acute Otitis Media in Children 2 mos to 12 yrs
Suspected Uncomplicated Acute Otitis Media (AOM)
For isolated otorrhea with tympanostomy tubes,
topical antibiotic drops only
topical antibiotic drops only
Assess Severity or Presence of Otorrhea from TM Perforation
- Severe disease, any one of:
- Temperature ≥ 39°C (102.2°F) in past 48 hrs
- Moderate to severe ear pain
- Ear pain for ≥ 48 hrs
Severe or otorrhea from TM perforation
Non-severe
< 6 mos
6–23 mos
≥ 2 yrs
Bilateral
Unilateral
Treat immediately
Durations by AgeRecommend 48–72 hrs observation
Consider safety-net antibiotic prescription (SNAP)
Durations by Age for SNAP| Antibiotic Durations by Age | |
|---|---|
| < 2 yrs | 10 days |
| 2–5 yrs | 7 days |
| ≥ 6 yrs | 5 days |
Evidence
- The Diagnosis and Management of Acute Otitis Media
- Cochlear Implants in Children: Surgical Site Infections and Prevention and Treatment of Acute Otitis Media and Meningitis
- The Risk of Meningitis After Cochlear Implantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Incidence of Infectious Complications Following Cochlear Implantation in Children and Adults
