Inappropriate Prescribing of Antibiotics for Self-Limiting Problems

The overuse of antibiotics is a significant problem which in turn causes concern with antibiotic resistance. Many self-limiting problems are treated inappropriately with antibiotics. Alternative options for symptomatic relief need to be utilized more to prevent exacerbation of antibiotic resistance. Alternatives can be very effective in both symptom relief and cost. This evidenced based educational intervention project succeeded in achieving a change in antibiotic prescribing practices in viral sinus symptom relief, the use of alternative treatment modalities for sinus symptoms, the confidence in knowing that patient satisfaction is not directly related to prescribing antibiotics if they are inappropriately used and the ability to communicate effectively with patients as to why an antibiotic is not appropriate. The most important being the decrease in the inappropriate use of antibiotics in treating viral infection symptoms which will go a long way at addressing the world wide need to decrease antibiotic resistance.

Dr. Janet Teske obtained her Doctorate as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2009.She is the Manager of Retail Based Clinics for Aurora Health Care and is an adjunct faculty member for the Graduate Nursing Program at Concordia University in Mequon, Wisconsin.