Dry Cough Flashcards
Do dry coughs require a counselling room?
No
What are 11 red flags for referral with dry coughs?
- Refer patients who have not yet received a COVID test
- Persistent fever
- Respiratory noises
- Shortness of breath
- Discoloured sputum
- Pain on inspiration
- Chest pain
- Suspected adverse drug reaction
- Persistent nocturnal cough
- Patient taking a medication which may cause dry cough (such as an ACE Inhibitor)
- Cough > 2 weeks and not improving
Do dry coughs have a PSA self-care card?
Yes (Cold and Flu)
What is the preferred treatment option for dry coughs?
Duro-Tuss Dry Cough Forte (pholcodine 15mg/5mL)
What are the directions for Duro-Tuss Dry Cough Forte (pholcodine 15mg/5mL) for dry coughs in adults and children over 12 years?
5 mL FOUR times daily
What are the directions for Duro-Tuss Dry Cough Forte (pholcodine 15mg/5mL) for dry coughs in children aged 6 to 11 years?
2.5 mL FOUR times daily
What are 2 non-preferred options for dry coughs and why?
- Rikodeine (Dihydrocodeine 19mg/10mL): subject to abuse, greater risk of adverse effects
- Bisolvon Dry (dextromethorphan 10mg/5mL): subject to abuse, risk of serotonin syndrome
Is Duro-Tuss Dry Cough Forte (pholcodine 15mg/5mL) safe in pregnancy?
Yes
Is Duro-Tuss Dry Cough Forte (pholcodine 15mg/5mL) safe in breastfeeding?
No
Is Duro-Tuss Dry Cough Forte (pholcodine 15mg/5mL) safe in diabetics?
Yes
What is a precaution associated with Duro-Tuss Dry Cough Forte (pholcodine 15mg/5mL)?
It may be sedating
What is the age range for Duro-Tuss Dry Cough Forte (pholcodine 15mg/5mL)?
Safe in children over 6 years
What are 5 pieces of non-pharmacological advice for dry coughs?
- Rest (reduce voice use).
- Increase fluid intake as this will prevent dehydration and help to thin mucus.
- Discourage smoking.
- Demulcents (simple linctus, lemon and honey) can relieve irritation that causes coughing by forming a film over mucous membranes
- Honey not recommended in children under 12 months due to risk of botulism.
What is the cause of most dry coughs?
Most dry coughs are caused by a viral infection and are self-limiting.
How long do most dry coughs last for?
Most dry coughs resolve within 7 to 10 days.
