Assignment Directions
The focus this week is on antimicrobial agents. Principles for the appropriate choice of antibiotics and the factors that influence outcomes will be discussed. Also emphasized will be the mechanisms by which antimicrobial resistance develops and practical applications to prevent resistance. Remember that you will be creating a communication tool for the parent of a 4-year-old with an acute upper respiratory tract infection of a possible vital etiology. Your decision of how to treat this patient must be based on the highest level of current evidence.
Case Study:
Discussion: Mr. Smith brings his 4-year-old to your office with chief complaints of right ear pain, sneezing, mild cough, and low-grade fever of 100 degrees for the last 72 hours. Today, the child is alert, cooperative, and well hydrated. You note a mildly erythemic throat with no exudate, both ears mild pink tympanic membrane with good movement, lungs clear. You diagnose an acute upper respiratory infection, probably viral in nature. Mr. Smith is states that the family is planning a trip out of town starting tomorrow and would like an antibiotic just in case.
Create a communication plan for Mr. Smith and/or families for both prescriptive and non-prescriptive drug therapies. Describe what you would tell Mr. Smith and the child. Provide resources that Mr. Smith could access which would provide information concerning your decision
