The nurse is providing discharge instructions to the caregiver of an infant with recurrent otitis media. Which statement made by the caregiver should the nurse recognize as needing additional education about minimizing subsequent infections?

Choice A reason: Completing antibiotics ensures bacterial eradication, reducing otitis media recurrence; this reflects proper understanding of infection management, not needing further education. Choice B reason: Pneumococcal vaccine prevents otitis media-causing bacteria, a proactive step; this shows good knowledge of immunization’s role, requiring no additional teaching. Choice C reason: Benzocaine otic drops relieve pain but don’t prevent infections; regular use suggests misunderstanding, as it doesn’t address recurrence, needing education on prevention. Choice D reason: Avoiding smoke reduces eustachian tube irritation, a key otitis media risk factor; this indicates correct understanding, not requiring further instruction.