This learning
activity aims to update your knowledge on common respiratory tract infections
and the antibiotic medicines used to treat them.
On completion of this module you should be able to:
- identify the signs and symptoms of common respiratory tract infections and know which require early treatment with antibiotics to prevent long term complications
- explain the difference between the common cold, COVID-19 and influenza and describe how to manage these conditions
- describe how antibiotics do not treat infections caused by viruses and that non-medicine options can be safe and effective
- explain to clients how to take any supplied antibiotic, including duration of therapy, safe storage, likely side-effects, and when to seek further advice
- educate clients not to save antibiotics for another illness or share with other people
- describe how to prevent infections including keeping vaccinations up-to-date, and practising regular hand-washing and respiratory hygiene.
