Pediatric Otitis Media: To Treat or Not to Treat with Antibiotics

Overview

A bacterial or viral infection of the middle ear, acute otitis media (AOM) is the most common childhood infection in the United States for which antibiotics are prescribed. It’s also the leading reason for pediatric healthcare visits. Antibiotics are prescribed for AOM more often than for any other childhood illness, but many pediatric providers aren’t sure if that's the right thing to do. In fact, research shows that more than 80% of AOM cases resolve without treatment.

This article will provide nurses with information on how to better care for children with AOM.