What supportive care measures should be implemented for a patient diagnosed with SJS/TEN in a general practice environment?

Supportive care measures for a patient diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) in a general practice environment include:

• Immediate referral to hospital: Patients with SJS or TEN require urgent specialist care due to the severity of the condition and risk of complications; general practice should focus on prompt recognition and urgent referral rather than definitive management ¹.
• Stop the suspected causative drug immediately: Discontinue any drug suspected to have caused the reaction and advise the patient to avoid this drug in the future ¹.
• Document the suspected drug allergy clearly in the medical records: This ensures continuity of care and prevents re-exposure ¹.
• Provide the patient and carers with information: Explain the nature of the reaction, the suspected causative drug, and the importance of avoiding this drug and related drug classes in the future; advise them to carry this information at all times and share it with healthcare professionals ¹.
• Symptomatic treatment in the acute phase if needed: While definitive treatment is hospital-based, initial symptom relief (e.g., pain management) may be provided if safe and appropriate ¹.

In summary, supportive care in general practice is primarily focused on early recognition, stopping the offending drug, urgent referral to specialist care, documentation, and patient education ¹.