What should be done for a child diagnosed with an acute ear infection?

For a child diagnosed with an acute ear infection, providing paracetamol for pain is an important and appropriate response. Acute ear infections, or otitis media, are often associated with significant discomfort and can lead to distress for both the child and the caregivers. Paracetamol serves as a safe and effective analgesic to alleviate pain and improve the quality of life during the course of the infection.

Managing symptoms is essential; therefore, ensuring the child is comfortable with pain relief directly meets the needs of the patient. In many cases, ear infections can resolve on their own, and supportive care with pain management is a key part of treatment.

Other potential approaches for a child with an ear infection, such as considering medication or referrals, may depend on the severity and duration of symptoms, but symptomatic relief with paracetamol remains a primary recommendation in the immediate management of pain due to an acute ear infection.