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Acute sore throat — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfectionsAcute sore throatGPhC CRA

A 28-year-old woman asks for antibiotics for sore throat after two days of fever and painful swallowing. She has no cough, has tender anterior cervical nodes and tonsillar exudate, and is systemically well. What is the most appropriate alternative?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Assess using a validated sore throat score and manage according to the Pharmacy First pathway where available

Sore throat management should use a structured clinical score and assessment of red flags rather than exudate alone. Pharmacy First or local pathways may allow treatment where criteria are met. Many sore throats are self-limiting, and antibiotics are not automatic. Emergency referral is reserved for airway compromise, severe systemic illness or complications.

Reference: NICE CKS; Pharmacy First service specification