Sore Throats: Before You Refer!

Published: 15/07/24

As we all know, not every presenting sore throat is a throat infection, therefore, not every sore throat needs an antibiotic.

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Part of community pharmacy’s role is to be responsible antimicrobial stewards, and this includes identifying the correct symptom management for patients presenting with sore throat characteristics.

The skillset available in every community pharmacy can determine the difference between a self-limiting sore throat OR when further assessment to identify a throat infection may be required.

Providing patients with advice and symptomatic relief for self-limiting sore throats via NHS Pharmacy First does not require the assessment of an IP pharmacist.

We have linked some useful learning resources below if you feel your knowledge may need updating on how to correctly identify and manage sore throats.

Identifying correctly ensures patients get the right treatment, reduces antimicrobial resistance and helps to protect valuable resource for when further assessments are indeed needed.

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