Ottitis Media Question

[HeartsOpenWide, RN]

I am doing a review course and it says to lay on the affected side for drainage with Ottitis Media...I always though you were suppose to lie on the opposite side with a heating pad for drainage through he Eustachian tube....how is the fluid suppose to drain when lying on the affected side through the ear drum ?? Didn't think it could do that... I am I confused or do you think this is a mistake?

[bsrn0523]

I think you would have the pt. lay on the affected side to allow for drainage if the eardrum has perforated.

[HeartsOpenWide, RN]

I think you would have the pt. lay on the affected side to allow for drainage if the eardrum has perforated.

But what if it hasn't? Affected side right?

[KellymusacchiaRN]

Always lay pt on the affected side for drainage :)