Question

The nurse is assessing a patient who has recently been treated with amoxicillin for acute otitis media of the right ear. Which finding is a priority to report to the health care provider?

a. The patient has a temperature of 100.6° F.
b. The patient complains of "popping" in the ear.
c. The patient frequently asks the nurse to repeat information.
d. The patient states that the right ear has a feeling of fullness.

Answer 1

The finding that is a priority to report to the health care provider is: the patient complains of 'popping' in the ear.

Step-by-step explanation:

The finding that is a priority to report to the health care provider in this case is b. The patient complains of 'popping' in the ear. This symptom may indicate a complication or adverse reaction to the treatment. It could suggest that pressure is building up in the middle ear, potentially due to fluid accumulation or an infection.

Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed for the treatment of acute otitis media, but if the patient experiences worsening symptoms or new symptoms, it is important to inform the healthcare provider. The 'popping' sensation in the ear could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a perforated eardrum or middle ear infection.

The other options (a. The patient has a temperature of 100.6° F, c. The patient frequently asks the nurse to repeat information, and d. The patient states that the right ear has a feeling of fullness) may be expected side effects or common symptoms of acute otitis media or the antibiotic treatment, but they are not necessarily indicative of a complication or adverse reaction that requires immediate attention.