Childhood Otitis Media: The Family's Endless Quest for Relief

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a common disease of childhood that has a profound influence on family life. The findings of a grounded theory study that explored family interaction when a child has OME are contained in this article. Three variables were found to influence the position of the family on a continuum of learning to manage: effects of the disease on the child, disruption to family life, and relationship with the health care system. In this discussion the authors focus on the effects on the child and family life. Comparisons are made with the effects of chronic illness on a family. The documentation of the effects of OME on family life is significant to assist health care professionals in appreciating the gty of this often trivialized illness. Some strategies are suggested for positive health promotion in these families.