9. Summary

In summary, when considering antibiotic prescriptions:

• Think - do we need to start antibiotics?
• Does the patient have an infection?
• What is the likely source? (CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS)
• What are the likely causative microorganisms? (MICROBIOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS)
• Document signs and symptoms
• Document indication for antibiotics
• Prescribe antibiotics in line with antimicrobial guidelines
• Ensure appropriate specimens are obtained for cultures / sensitivities in line with relevant antibiotic guidelines
• Document review / stop date for antibiotics
• Review diagnosis if not responding to treatment

We hope you enjoyed this e-learning package and have met the learning objectives:

• Appreciate your role in the diagnosis and management of infection
• Understand how this process contributes to keeping antibiotics effective now, and for the future