Final answer:
The most sensitive diagnostic test for acute otitis media (AOM) is limited mobility on insufflation or air-fluid level. Risk factors for AOM include low socioeconomic status, being Native American, formula feeding, exposure to tobacco smoke, and being around other children. Treatment involves antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or azithromycin, and complications may include otitis media with effusion (OME) that may require tubes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most sensitive diagnostic test for acute otitis media (AOM) is limited mobility on insufflation or the presence of an air-fluid level. These findings can be observed during a physical examination of the ear.
Risk factors for AOM include low socioeconomic status (SES), being Native American, formula feeding, exposure to tobacco smoke, and being around other children. These factors can increase the likelihood of developing an ear infection.
Treatment for AOM typically involves antibiotics. The first-line antibiotic is amoxicillin or azithromycin, to be taken for 10 days. If there is no improvement within 2-3 days, switching to amoxicillin-clavulanate (augmentin) may be necessary.
Complications of AOM include the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear, known as otitis media with effusion (OME). If bilateral effusion persists for more than 4 months or if there is bilateral hearing loss, tubes may need to be placed to alleviate the condition.