The prescription of antibiotics by nurse prescribers
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The prescription of antibiotics for acute respiratory tract symptoms: patients’ expectations, management by nurse prescribers and patient satisfaction
IRAS ID
150037
Contact name
Molly Courtenay
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Research summary
Antibiotic use is an important factor in the increase in resistance. As no new classes of antibiotics are expected on the market in the medium term, conserving antibiotic sensitivity through more appropriate use is a priority. Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are the most frequent acute problems for which patients consult within primary care. Although most RTIs are viral and self-limiting, 45-91% of these consultations result in an antibiotic prescription. Perceived pressure from patients is a major influence on doctor prescribing. Patients who are prescribed an antibiotic for a RTI are more likely to consult a health professional to request antibiotics the next time they develop a RTI. Breaking the chain of clinician and patients’ beliefs about the expectations for, and effectiveness of antibiotics for minor illness, is a key factor in controlling their unnecessary use. While research has explored antibiotic prescribing by general practitioners for RTI, there is little or no evidence available on the prescription of these medicines by nurse prescribers. Since the introduction of nurse prescribing in 2002, over 20,000 nurses have become qualified to prescribe independently. Large numbers of these prescribers work in general practice and antibiotics are frequent medicines prescribed. The scant evidence available suggests that nurse prescribers are less likely to be influenced by perceived patient pressure and employ strategies to educate patients and encourage self-management. However, there is no evidence available that has examined the expectations of patients who consult with a nurse for a RTI. The aim of this research is to identify if patients with respiratory tract infections, who are prescribed antibiotics, are more satisfied with their consultation with a nurse prescriber than those who receive information/reassurance and whether this is influenced by patient expectations. The study adopts a survey design and data will be collected using a previously validated patient questionnaire.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/0480
Date of REC Opinion
17 Mar 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion