The treatment of acute bronchitis by general practitioners in the UK. Results of a cross sectional postal survey.
BACKGROUND
In Australia and the UK acute bronchitis is a common presenting problem in general practice. When symptoms persist management can be difficult and despite evidence that antibiotics are usually ineffective their use is widespread.


OBJECTIVE
To describe prescribing behaviour for acute bronchitis by general practitioners in the United Kingdom.


METHODS
Cross sectional postal survey of UK GPs.


RESULTS
Four hundred and nineteen (73%) GPs responded. Purulent sputum, fever and crepitations/crackles on chest examination were the most important reasons for prescribing antibiotics: 89% of GPs said the colour of the sputum influenced their decision; amoxycillin was the first choice; 40% of GPs believed that at least one in five consultations for ARI were affected by patient factors, usually to maintain patient satisfaction. 47% of GPs advised the use of bronchodilators, and 96% recommended the symptomatic use of paracetamol and fluids.


CONCLUSIONS
General practitioners are influenced to use antibiotics by patient symptoms and signs for which there is little evidence. Patient psychosocial factors influence prescribing. Until clearer research findings from new studies are available, GPs may opt for a 'just in case' prescription.
Stocks
Nigel P
NP
Department of General Practice, University of Adelaide, South Australia. nigel.stocks@adelaide.edu.au
Fahey
Tom
T
D000208:Acute Disease; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001991:Bronchitis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians' / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006113:United Kingdom
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents