What will the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner teach the parents of a child who has newly placed pressure equalization tubes (PET) in the ears?

Choice A reason: Routine use of earplugs during bathing is no longer universally recommended unless the child is swimming in untreated water or has a history of otorrhea. Overprotection may be unnecessary and burdensome. Choice B reason: PETs are placed to ventilate the middle ear and reduce the frequency and severity of otitis media. This is the primary benefit and should be emphasized to parents. Choice C reason: PETs typically remain in place for 6 to 12 months, not 3 to 4 years. They usually fall out spontaneously, and prolonged retention may require removal. Choice D reason: Improved hearing may occur, especially if effusion was present prior to tube placement. However, this is not guaranteed and should not be the sole expectation conveyed to parents.