A nurse is caring for a child who has otitis media. Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse expect?

Rationale: A. Rubbing or pulling at the affected ear is a common symptom of otitis media, reflecting discomfort or pain in the middle ear. B. Clear drainage is more characteristic of otitis externa or tympanic membrane perforation, not typical uncomplicated otitis media. C. External erythema and edema are usually associated with otitis externa (external ear infection) rather than middle ear infection. D. Hearing loss can occur transiently with otitis media due to fluid buildup, but pain and ear tugging are more immediate and observable clinical signs.