Mock 10

Clinical Scenario for Role Play: Patient Requesting Antibiotics for Viral URTI

Background Information:

• You are a general practitioner at a clinic.
• Olivia, aged 27, returns for follow-up after her initial presentation with symptoms of a viral URTI.
• Previous treatment included mild analgesics and steam inhalation, with a swab test confirming no bacterial infection.

Patient Profile:

• Female, 27 years old.
• Initial symptoms: runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, cough.
• No evidence of bacterial infection from recent swab test.

Scenario Setup:

• Olivia insists on receiving antibiotics despite previous findings indicating a viral infection.
• The doctor's task is to explain why antibiotics are not necessary, address her concerns, and manage her symptoms effectively.

Patient Prompts:

1. Request for Antibiotics:

   • Olivia expresses frustration: "I feel miserable and the medications aren't helping enough. I think I need antibiotics to get better."

2. Concern About Recovery Time:

   • She questions, "Shouldn’t I be feeling better by now? Why is it taking so long?"

Clinchers:

• Educational Opportunity:
  • "Antibiotics aren't effective against viruses, which is what's causing your symptoms. Using them when they're not needed can lead to future problems like antibiotic resistance."

Important Points to Keep in Mind:

• Empathy and Validation:

  • Acknowledge Olivia’s discomfort and frustration. Validate her feelings by acknowledging that URTI symptoms can indeed be very uncomfortable and disruptive.

• Education on Viral vs. Bacterial Infections:

  • Explain the difference between viral and bacterial infections. Emphasize that antibiotics treat bacterial infections and are not only ineffective against viruses but can cause side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

• Symptom Management and Supportive Care:

  • Review the symptoms and reassess her condition to ensure no new signs of a possible bacterial infection or complications.
  • Discuss and optimize symptomatic treatment, such as increasing fluid intake, continuing steam inhalation, and using saline nasal sprays or additional over-the-counter treatments like decongestants if appropriate and safe.

Expected from the Doctor:

• Clear Communication:

  • Use clear, understandable language to explain medical concepts. Ensure Olivia understands why antibiotics are not suitable for her condition.

• Reassurance:

  • Provide reassurance that viral infections typically resolve without antibiotics and discuss the expected timeline for recovery. Inform her of signs that should prompt a return visit, such as worsening symptoms or the development of new symptoms like high fever or difficulty breathing.

• Alternative Recommendations:

  • Offer additional recommendations for home remedies and over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate her symptoms and promote comfort.

• Follow-Up:

  • Arrange a follow-up if symptoms do not improve in the expected timeframe or if she develops signs of complications. This shows ongoing support and reassurance for her care.

This scenario tests the candidate's ability to handle common clinical situations involving patient expectations for antibiotics when they are not indicated. It assesses the candidate's skills in patient education, empathy, clinical judgment, and communication.