Patient information

There is evidence that the use of leaflets or booklets outlining the natural history of respiratory tract infections (and information about when to reconsult) can result in reduced antibiotic prescribing. Reductions in antibiotic prescribing have been shown to result in reductions in future demand for consultations.

Self-care advice sheets for patients
These have been designed for prescribers to use with patients presenting with self-limiting respiratory tract infections for whom no prescription, or a delayed antibiotic prescription is appropriate.

The advice sheets have been designed to be used as a tool for prescribers to interact with patients during the consultation, rather than as a ‘parting gift’.

TARGET RCGP - treat your infection patient leaflet