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Parents' Experiences Caring for Children Diagnosed With Ear Infections: A Qualitative Analysis
1Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
Journal of Primary Care & Community Health
|August 11, 2026
Summary
Parents of children diagnosed with acute otitis media (AOM) face challenges like symptom persistence and sleep disruption. Improved physician communication regarding recovery expectations and follow-up can significantly aid parents during AOM recovery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Qualitative Research
- Parental Experience
Background:
- Acute otitis media (AOM) is a common childhood illness.
- Limited qualitative research exists on parental experiences post-AOM diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore parental challenges following a child's AOM diagnosis.
- To identify potential mitigation strategies for these challenges.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving interviews with 19 parents of children aged 3-24 months diagnosed with AOM.
- Data analyzed using template analysis.
Main Results:
- Key parental concerns included lack of symptom improvement, sleep/work disruption, and antimicrobial treatment issues.
- Parents of children with recurrent AOM reported different experiences than those with fewer episodes.
- Parents suggested improved physician communication on recovery timelines and optional follow-ups.
Conclusions:
- Physician counseling at diagnosis, detailing expected recovery and follow-up indications, can enhance parental experience.
- Addressing parental concerns proactively can improve care for children with AOM.
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