Suspected acute respiratory infection in over 16s: assessment at first presentation and initial management—summary of NICE guidance

What you need to knowFor patients with acute respiratory infection who can be cared for at home, ensure they understand signs of deterioration and when to seek further helpAssess patients with a clinical diagnosis of pneumonia using CRB65 to inform a shared decision about the right care pathway for themPoint-of-care biomarker and microbiological tests alone should not determine care at first presentationAcute respiratory tract infections (ARIs) represent a significant burden on healthcare services, particularly during the winter season when the incidence of respiratory infection is highest. To relieve this pressure, NHS England has introduced a range of measures including ARI hubs and virtual wards. In addition to assessing and caring for patients whose clinical presentation might indicate a respiratory tract infection, healthcare practitioners must also engage in decision making with the patient about the most appropriate care pathway from a growing number of options.The National Institute for Health and Care…
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