Illustrates the effectiveness of nonrandomized comparative studies of ear plugs or nonswimming compared to no precautions. The summary odds ratio for the comparison of ear plugs was 1.7, with a 95 percent confidence interval ranging from 0.95 to 3.06. For the nonswimming vs. no precautions, the summary odds ratio was 1.52 (95% confidence interval 0.71 to 3.25).

Figure INonrandomized comparative studies only, children with one or more episodes of otorrhea

CI= Confidence Interval; NRCS= Nonrandomized Comparative Study; OR = Odds ratio (values > 1 favor ‘no precautions’ arms; values < 1 favor intervention (ear plugs or nonswimming)

From: Executive Summary

Cover of Tympanostomy Tubes in Children With Otitis Media
Tympanostomy Tubes in Children With Otitis Media [Internet].
Comparative Effectiveness Reviews, No. 185.
Steele D, Adam GP, Di M, et al.
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