Communication Summary

Nick Francis summarises the reason to re-evaluate your communication regarding your patient consultations around the use of antibiotic for respiratory tract infections.

Important communication points:

• Don’t assume that patients WANT to take antibiotics even though they are hinting that they do

• Ask patients about their concerns and their thoughts on using antibiotics

• Provide patients with an assessment of their condition, how long it is likely to last and self-help measures

• Give patients the likely benefits and risk of antibiotics

• Consider using printed information such as the Treating Your Infection leaflet to help support your consultation