A 6-year-old girl complains of otalgia, fever, and irritability. Physical examination reveals a stiff, bulging, red tympanic membrane. Previous history of ear infections is denied. Clinical response to amoxicillin is maximized on which of the following durations?

Prospective nonrandomized evaluations of treatment duration of acute otitis media reveal no difference in outcome if given over 5-day, 7-day, or 10-day duration. However, 10-day treatment is indicated for children with history of acute otitis media within the preceding month.