Differential Diagnosis for Ears My differential diagnosis is largely predicated on the concept of otitis media, which the patient was treated for in the past year and is fairly common in children (Woo et al., 2014, p. 1). Although it is relatively clear from the symptoms that Mark is experiencing some form of ear infection, it is necessary to distinguish exactly which type he is encountering this particular time around. I would consider the possibilities that Mark has either acute or chronic otitis media. It is obvious that he has suffered from this affliction in the past, which lends credibility to the possibility that he is likely suffering from the chronic form of this condition. Chronic otitis media symptoms follow those of the acute variety. Moreover, they are frequently not accompanied by the sort of fever that is often present with the acute form of this condition. Likely, the bacteria that Mark has become exposed through via swimming everyday, in conjunction with this asthma and allergies, is the source of this current manifestation of chronic otitis media.

2. I would likely manage Mark by giving him antibiotics to attempt to curb the infection and the activity of the...

However, I believe that due to Mark's history with this illness, it might be prudent to utilize the deployment of ear tubes. These tools could help drain some of the fluid that builds up during these sort of ear infections. Furthermore, they can also engender a salutary effect on the sort of inflammation of the middle ear and of some of the more external parts of this organ that are causing him pain. The strategy of this method of management is largely two-fold. On the one hand, the antibiotics can provide a short-term curative effect to immediately reduce the pain he is experiencing. If after talking to Mark and his parents about the possibility of ear tubes they seem receptive to the idea, this latter form of management could drastically reduce the instances of recurrence.
3. My health teachings for this particular patient are centered around preventing future ear infections. Specifically, the patient needs to be aware of the possibility of aggravating his ear canal via an assortment of maladies as related to swimming. The fact that he has been swimming at day camp each day that he has experienced pain in his ears is not incidental. Mark needs to learn…