Improving standards in the treatment of acute otitis externa by the use of a treatment protocol and open access to aural toilet.
A prospective audit of the procedure and outcome in the management of acute otitis externa was undertaken in our unit. The first cycle demonstrated a heterogeneous approach and clinical isolation of junior staff. A questionnaire survey of local general practitioners highlighted clinical confusion over the use of topical medication and a need for improved access to facilities for aural toilet. General practitioner liaison and education was an essential component in formulating a change in practice. In particular, open access for aural toilet was introduced and utilization encouraged. Following changes in practice, the second cycle of the audit showed that treatment protocols were effective and adhered to by junior staff.
Tierney
P A
PA
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital, Lewisham, London, UK. ptierney10@hotmail.com
Price
T
T
Gillet
D
D
Oyarzabal
M O
MO
Salama
N
N
D000208:Acute Disease; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000592:standards; D005194:Family Practice / Q000592:standards; D005260:Female; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008131:London; D008297:Male; D008485:Medical Audit / Q000379:methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D010032:Otitis Externa / Q000628:therapy*; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D010044:Outpatient Clinics, Hospital / Q000592:standards; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000592:standards; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires