Acute Otitis Media — Bulging Erythematous Tympanic Membrane

A 14-month-old boy presents to the pediatric clinic with fever (38.5°C), ear pain, and pulling at his right ear for 2 days. On otoscopy, the structure marked **A** shows moderate bulging with intense erythema and loss of normal landmarks. The child is otherwise well-nourished, attends daycare, and has no history of recurrent ear infections. What is the most appropriate initial management for this child?