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Otitis media in the pediatric intensive care unit: a prospective study
C S Derkay1, C D Bluestone, A E Thompson
1Otitis Media Research Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3417.
Summary
Otitis media is common in pediatric intensive care units, often linked to breathing tubes. This study identified risk factors and bacteria, finding hospital-acquired infections differ from community ones.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Intensive Care
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Otitis media is a known source of sepsis in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs).
- Otologic instruments are underutilized in PICU settings.
- Understanding nosocomial otitis media is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of otitis media in the PICU.
- To assess risk factors for developing nosocomial otitis media.
- To identify the specific causative organisms of PICU-acquired otitis media.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study design.
- Inclusion of pediatric patients in the intensive care unit.
- Assessment of otitis media prevalence, risk factors, and microbial etiology.
Main Results:
- Otitis media is a frequent diagnosis in the PICU.
- Prolonged eustachian tube dysfunction, often due to oral/nasal tubes, is a likely cause.
- Bacteriology is consistent with the hospital environment, not the community.
Conclusions:
- Otitis media is a significant nosocomial infection in PICUs.
- Management should consider the unique risk factors and microbial profiles in this setting.
- Improved diagnostic practices for otitis media in PICUs are warranted.