N213: Health Differences Across the Life Span 3

N213: Health Differences Across the Lifespan 3 Study Guide • Maintains stable respiratory status; oxygen saturations above 95%with normal breath sounds • Demonstrates relief of symptoms and body temperature within normal limits • Tolerates increased activity levels • Maintains adequate PO intake • Verbalizes understanding of immunization schedule and prevention of infection Otitis Media Otitis media is an acute middle ear infection. The organisms that cause this infection vary and can be either bacterial or viral and include streptococcus pneumoniae, haemophilus influenza, maxorella aatarrhalis, respiratory syncytial virus, and the common cold viruses. Middle ear infections are caused by bacteria or viruses entering the ear canal via the Eustachian tube, leading to severe inflammation and pain. This type of ear infection is serious and has complications if it goes untreated. Viral infections are given time to clear on their own and bacterial infections are treated with a course of antibiotics and pain relievers. One complication, mastoiditis, is when the infectionmigrates into the bones of the skull and can go even further into the brain and cause death. Most cases of otitis media can be successfully treated at home, but some may be so severe they need intravenous antibiotics. Nurses can help with treatment by taking a thorough history during assessment, inquiring about exposure to other illness, and discussing relief measures with parents. Signs and symptoms of otitis media: • Fever may or may not be present • High fever • Headache • Loss of hearing • Drainage from ear • Dizziness • Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite • Restlessness Nursing assessment for otitis media: • Head to toe general assessment o Inquire about recent illness and exposure to illness o Be sure to ask parents how long symptoms have lasted o Check temperature o Check pain levels o If URI is present, assess breath sounds and check throat for redness anddrainage o Assess for drainage from ear canal ©2017 Achieve Test Prep Page 31 of 204