Implementing delayed prescribing and point-of-care testing in busy primary care

[Scott27]

I'm a nurse practitioner in a busy primary care clinic, and I'm increasingly frustrated by patient expectations for antibiotics for clear viral infections, a pressure that sometimes leads to inappropriate prescribing. I want to improve our clinic's antibiotic stewardship practices to protect patients and combat resistance, but I need practical strategies that work in a fast-paced setting. For other primary care providers, what patient education materials or communication scripts have you found most effective for explaining why an antibiotic isn't indicated? How have you successfully implemented delayed prescribing protocols or point-of-care testing like rapid strep or CRP to support your clinical decisions and satisfy patients seeking treatment?