sore throat management Flashcards
When should a patient with a sore throat be admitted to the hospital?
Hospital admission is needed if there is difficulty breathing, clinical dehydration, peri-tonsillar abscess or cellulitis, signs of marked systemic illness or sepsis, or a suspected rare cause (e.g., Kawasaki disease, diphtheria).
Under what conditions should antibiotics be given for a sore throat?
Antibiotics should be given if Group A Streptococcus has been confirmed by throat cultures or rapid antigen testing, or if the person is experiencing severe symptoms, is systemically very unwell, or is at high risk of complications.
What antibiotics are recommended for a sore throat caused by Group A Streptococcus?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is recommended for 5 to 10 days.
What should be done if the patient is allergic to penicillin?
Clarithromycin should be given if the patient is allergic to penicillin.
Why should amoxicillin be avoided for treating tonsillitis?
Amoxicillin should be avoided because it may cause a widespread maculopapular rash if the tonsillitis is due to infectious mononucleosis.
What general advice should be given to patients with a sore throat?
Ensure adequate fluid intake, use paracetamol or ibuprofen when necessary, and consider saltwater gargling, lozenges, or anaesthetic sprays (e.g., Difflam) for temporary relief of throat pain.
When can children with a sore throat return to school?
Children can return to school after their fever has resolved, they are no longer feeling unwell, and/or after taking antibiotics for 24 hours.
When might patients with recurrent tonsillitis require referral to ENT for tonsillectomy?
Patients with recurrent tonsillitis may require referral to ENT for tonsillectomy.
What should be explained to patients about the diagnosis of tonsillitis?
Explain that the diagnosis is tonsillitis.
Why is it important for patients to take antibiotics correctly for 10 days even if symptoms improve?
It is important to take antibiotics correctly for 10 days to prevent complications and ensure full recovery even if symptoms get better in that time.
What should be advised regarding school attendance for children with tonsillitis?
Children should avoid school until 24 hours after starting antibiotics and until they are feeling well.
What symptomatic treatments can be recommended for a sore throat?
Paracetamol, lozenges, saltwater gargling, and Difflam can be used for symptomatic treatment.
summarise sore throat management
summarise sore throat management - laz
