Self-care advice
Self-care advice
Reassuring customers and managing their expectations are vital in the prevention of antibiotic resistance. You are able to provide self-care advice for them to manage their sore throat symptoms at home, rather than seeing a GP. Research shows that 1 in 5 people expect a prescription for antibiotics from their doctor,2 so engaging the community in the importance of self-care can help support GPs.
NICE guidelines
recommend the following:7,8
- Explain that sore throats are self-limiting and should improve in a week without antibiotics
- Consider paracetamol for pain or fever, or ibuprofen if suitable
- Ensure adequate fluid intake
- Recommend medicated lozenges as there is some evidence that they can help reduce pain in adults
You can also explain about antibiotic
resistance and advise customers to:5
- Avoid hot drinks as they can exacerbate pain
- Eat cool or soft foods
- Adults can gargle with warm, salty water
- Avoid smoking or smoky areas
- Try to rest