Final answer:
The primary concern for a child with acute otitis media is managing the acute pain associated with the infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse's PRIORITY concern for a child admitted with acute otitis media (AOM) is A. Acute pain. Acute otitis media can cause significant discomfort due to the accumulation of pus in the middle ear, which can lead to moderate to severe bulging of the tympanic membrane and ear pain, known as otalgia. Considering the age group most affected by this condition, which ranges from 3 months to 3 years, the priority is to address the pain that can lead to symptoms such as irritability, excessive crying, and sensitivity to disturbances, including light and noise.