Page 17 - P4403.14_V86_YOUROTC_Book NOVEMBER_2023_PRINT

HEALTHCARE 17

THE SELF-CARE OPPORTUNITY COLD & FLU

FOR PHARMACY SYMPTOMS MAY DIFFER

Community pharmacy has an important role to play in self care:

Signs and symptoms 2 Cold Flu
Symptom onset Gradual Abrupt
Ensures better Fever Rare Usual
physical health Aches Slight Usual

Fatigue, weakness Sometimes Usual
Sneezing Usual Sometimes
Chest discomfort, cough Mild to moderate Common
Help manage Stuffy runny nose Common Sometimes
chronic conditions Sore throat Common Sometimes
Headache Uncommon Common

Cough Common Common

IMPORTANT: if a patient has symptoms and suspects they might have COVID-19, or if they have had a
Improve positive test, please follow the latest government guidance which you can find on the NHS website.
healthcare access

How you

Free up GP time can help
patients
CONSIDER TELL THEM LET THEM
Messages to share The correct dosage What to expect KNOW
in terms of
with patients & administration of symptom relief When to expect
improvement
any medications –
during cold & flu including duration in symptoms
Reduce emergency consultations: 3 of usage
admissions

LOOK OUT FOR REACTIONS ADVICE CONSIDERATION
Improving health literacy and promoting self-care Any red flags to watch What to do if there is When to return to the Remember to consider
out for no improvement or if pharmacy or any other self care
Self-care advice – NICE 1 an adverse reaction is ask for advice recommendations e.g.
experienced tissues & vitamins.
• Antibiotics are ineffective for cold & flu viruses and may have adverse events
• Adequate fluid should be taken to compensate for fever and mucous secretion The majority of cold & flu symptoms are over in 4-5 days, but it can take up to 10 days or more
• Remain as active as possible without feeling significant discomfort for complete recovery. Be aware that patients may attend the pharmacy at different stages of
4
• Wash hands with hot water and soap to get rid of any germs that may have been picked up a cold and with different symptoms.

PI can be found on back page PI can be found on back page

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