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Acute Otitis Media Curriculum
Daniel Nicklas1, Janice Hanson2, Joseph Lopreiato3
1Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine.
Introduction:
Studies have shown that clinicians do a poor job of diagnosing middle ear infections, and an inaccurate diagnosis may result in inappropriate treatment, such as overuse of antibiotics. Antibiotic overuse is known to lead to increased bacterial resistance and puts patients at risk of deleterious side effects, including allergic reactions, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In this curriculum, we teach three important topics for achieving a successful middle ear exam and diagnosis of pathology.
Methods:
The topics covered during the session are middle ear examination techniques, diagnosis of middle ear pathology and criteria for diagnosing acute otitis media, and treatment of acute otitis media. Each topic has a 30-minute lesson plan with broad goals, specific and measurable learning objectives, interactive learning activities, and assessment measures. Teaching activities include a mix of knowledge, skill, and attitude activities. Assessment measures aim at the highest level of Miller's pyramid of assessment when possible. Also included is a scholarship map that relates how this learning activity can fit into the assessment of learners at the program level by linking learning objectives with pediatric developmental milestones.
Results:
The interactive nature of these lessons has been very well received by learners, and pediatric residents have had a self-perceived increase in skills.
Discussion:
This curriculum provides a standardized approach to teaching the middle ear exam structured by educational rubrics and allows for accurate assessment of learners.
Insights
This curriculum improves middle ear infection diagnosis by standardizing training for clinicians. Pediatric residents report increased skills and confidence in performing ear exams and diagnosing pathology.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Pediatrics
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Clinician diagnostic accuracy for middle ear infections is suboptimal, leading to antibiotic overuse.
- Antibiotic overuse contributes to bacterial resistance and adverse patient side effects.
- Accurate diagnosis of middle ear infections is crucial for appropriate patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a standardized curriculum for teaching middle ear examination techniques and diagnosis.
- To improve the accuracy of diagnosing middle ear infections and acute otitis media.
- To provide a structured educational framework for assessing learners' competency.
Main Methods:
- The curriculum covers ear examination, pathology diagnosis, and acute otitis media criteria.
- Each topic includes a 30-minute lesson plan with learning objectives and interactive activities.
- Assessment measures align with Miller's pyramid, focusing on higher-level skills and linking to pediatric milestones.
Main Results:
- Learners reported a self-perceived increase in their examination and diagnostic skills.
- The interactive learning activities were well-received by pediatric residents.
- The curriculum facilitates a standardized approach to teaching and assessment.
Conclusions:
- This curriculum offers a structured educational approach to the middle ear exam.
- It enables accurate assessment of learners' skills in diagnosing middle ear pathology.
- Standardized training can enhance diagnostic accuracy and reduce inappropriate antibiotic use.
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