After a toddler undergoes a myringotomy, what important advice should parents receive for home care?

The guidance given to parents after a toddler undergoes a myringotomy is crucial for the child's recovery and overall ear health. Advising parents to insert earplugs during baths is essential because it helps prevent water from entering the ear canal. Since the procedure involves creating an incision in the eardrum to relieve fluid buildup and pressure, keeping water out is important to avoid potential infections or complications during the healing process.

While it may seem helpful to keep cotton in the ears, that can pose a risk as cotton may not effectively block water and can leave fibers behind, which could irritate the ear. Keeping the child out of kindergarten is unnecessary if proper precautions are followed, as social engagement is important for their development. Cleaning the child's ears with cotton-tipped swabs is generally discouraged, especially after surgery, because the swabs can inadvertently push wax or debris further into the ear canal and can irritate the sensitive area post-procedure.

Thus, emphasizing the insertion of earplugs during bath time provides a clear, practical measure to protect the child's ears while they heal.