Final answer:
A patient with tympanostomy tubes and purulent discharge likely has an infection, which is treated with antibiotics and by keeping the ear clean. An over-the-counter topical antibiotic ointment may be used until lab results provide more information.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient who received tympanostomy tubes presents with purulent discharge on one side, it is indicative of an infection, possibly acute otitis media (AOM). The presence of pus suggests bacterial involvement, and treatment should be initiated promptly. The first step would be to examine the patient to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity. Clinical management typically involves prescribing appropriate antibiotics to treat the infection. Additionally, the patient should be instructed to keep the ear dry and clean to prevent further complications.
As the infection causes inflammation and swelling of the eustachian tubes, it leads to the accumulation of pus in the middle ear, which can cause ear pain and other systemic symptoms such as fever if not treated. The over-the-counter topical antibiotic ointment may also be suggested, similar to the approach taken for other bacterial infections where purulent discharge is present. This will ensure the area is treated topically until further medical advice can be given and laboratory results can confirm the causative agent.