C. Ask the mother how long the tubes have been in place.
The nurse's best action in this scenario would be to gather more information by asking the mother how long the tubes have been in place. This question is important because the duration for which the ear tubes have been in place can provide valuable insight into the child's condition and the urgency of the situation.
Based on the mother's response, the nurse can then make a more informed decision regarding the appropriate course of action. The nurse may proceed to schedule an office appointment if the tubes have been in place for a sufficient period and there are no immediate concerns. On the other hand, if the tubes have been in place for a long time or if there are specific symptoms or issues, the nurse may consult with a healthcare provider to determine if prescribing antibiotics before removal or scheduling a surgical appointment at a hospital is necessary.