Otitis Externa Flashcards
What are 3 symptoms of otitis externa?
- Itching/inflammation/irritation of the external ear canal.
- May be due to water, dermatitis, local trauma, foreign objects.
- Most caused by water and referred to as “Swimmers Ear”
Does otitis externa require a counselling room?
No
What are 8 red flags for referral with otitis externa?
- Ear pain in children under 6.
- Any signs of inflammation
- Hearing loss or ringing in the ears
- If mucopurulent discharge to could be sign of otitis media (infection)
- Fever/systemic symptoms
- Prolonged pain lasting more than 24 hours
- Symptoms lasting more than 7 days after OTC treatment
- Aboriginal or TSI
Does otitis externa have a PSA self-care card?
Yes (Ear Problems)
What is the preferred treatment option for otitis externa?
Aqua Ear (Acetic Acid + Isopropyl Alcohol): however only when caused by water.
What are the directions for Aqua Ear (Acetic Acid + Isopropyl Alcohol) in otitis externa?
Instil 4 to 6 drops into each ear immediately after swimming or bathing. Retain in ear canal for ONE MINUTE for maximum dehydrating effect.
What is 1 non-preferred option for otitis externa and why?
- All other ear drops: add moisture to the environment which is counterintuitive and increases the risk of infection.
Is Aqua Ear (Acetic Acid + Isopropyl Alcohol) safe in pregnancy?
Yes
Is Aqua Ear (Acetic Acid + Isopropyl Alcohol) safe in breastfeeding?
Yes
What is the age range for Aqua Ear (Acetic Acid + Isopropyl Alcohol)?
Safe in children over 3 years
What are 6 pieces of non-pharmacological advice for otitis externa?
- Keeping ears dry and to promote healing of inflamed or infected tissue
- Thorough and gentle cleaning of ear canal.
- Keep water out of the ear until infection/inflammation is gone.
- Use cotton wool balls or silicone ear plugs
- Avoid swimming
- Using ear plugs when swimming to prevent excess water from entering ear canal
