Learning Objectives

Following this webinar, participants will be better able to:

  • Implement diagnostic and decision-making tools in the management and treatment of acute cough and acute sore throat, including when to prescribe antibiotics, in line with NICE prescribing guidance for respiratory tract infections (RTIs)
  • Interpret the patient perspective on antibiotic prescribing for RTIs
  • Utilise evidence-based strategies and resources when discussing antibiotics with patients in the context of RTIs
  • Recognise the challenges surrounding the management of RTIs and COVID-19, when they may present with similar symptoms.

Who is it for?

Medical practitioners in the primary care setting including but not limited to:

  • GPs and other primary care prescribers
  • General practice nurses
  • Practice and community pharmacists

Background information

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are one of the most frequent reasons for consulting in primary care (1), especially over the winter months. How clinicians manage RTIs influences antibiotic use, patient self-care, safety netting and further patient care-seeking (2,3).

This webinar will demonstrate the link between prescribing for RTI and resistance trends in England. Using clinical scenarios, we will summarise NICE prescribing guidance and best practice recommendations to support management and treatments of RTIs in primary care settings. This webinar will discuss patient perceptions of antibiotic prescribing, their views on back-up/ delayed prescriptions, and tips on discussing these with patients.

References

  • McNulty CAM, Collin SM, Cooper E, et al. (2019) Public understanding and use of antibiotics in England: findings from a household survey in 2017. BMJ Open 9(10), doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030845, pmid:31662380. e030845.
  • Butler CC, Hood K, Verheij T, et al. (2009) Variation in antibiotic prescribing and its impact on recovery in patients with acute cough in primary care: prospective study in 13 countries. BMJ 338:b2242.
  • Williamson I, Benge S, Mullee M, Little P (2006) Consultations for middle ear disease, antibiotic prescribing and risk factors for reattendance. A case-linked cohort study. Br J Gen Pract 56(524):170–175.
  • McNulty CAM, Collin SM, Cooper E, et al. (2019) Public understanding and use of antibiotics in England: findings from a household survey in 2017. BMJ Open 9(10), doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030845, pmid:31662380. e030845.