Question

A 3-year-old child presents to a rural clinic with a 2-day history of fever, decreased appetite and mild cough. The parents request antibiotics "just in case." The child is playful, vital signs are stable and examination is unremarkable. According to Choosing Wisely Canada and family medicine principles, what is the most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Explain that this likely represents a self-limited viral illness and avoid antibiotics, offering safety-net advice.

Answer

Prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic to prevent potential pneumonia.

Answer

Order a chest radiograph and full blood work to look for occult infection.

Answer

Prescribe cough syrup containing codeine for symptom relief.

Answer

Admit the child to hospital for observation.

Practice question