Eurosurveillance
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effects of primary care C-reactive protein point-of-care testing on antibiotic prescribing by general practice staff: pragmatic randomised controlled trial, England, 2016 and 2017.
BackgroundC-reactive protein (CRP) testing can be used as a point-of-care test (POCT) to guide antibiotic use for acute cough. AimWe wanted to determine feasibility and effect of introducing CRP POCT in general practices in an area with high antibiotic prescribing for patients with acute cough and to evaluate patients' views of the test. MethodsWe used a McNulty-Zelen cluster pragmatic randomised controlled trial design in general practices in Northern England. ⋯ ConclusionsIn routine general practice, CRP POCT use was variable. Non-significant reductions in antibiotic prescribing may reflect small sample size due to non-use of tests. While CRP POCT may be useful, primary care staff need clearer CRP guidance and action planning according to NICE guidance.