58 124 Definition Inflammation of the pharynx caused by both viral and bacterial organisms that include rhi- novirus, group A coxsackievirus, parainfluenza virus, beta-hemolytic streptococcus, and Neisseria gonococcus. Smoking, breathing polluted air, hay fever, and other allergies also can be causes. Characteristics Dry sore throat, fatigue, mild fever, painful swallowing, persistent desire to clear the throat, headache, and congestion usually are evident, as are red and edematous mucous mem- branes, with white or yellow exudate present. Temperature can range from normal to 104ºF. Other vital signs essentially are unchanged. Policy Evaluate employee complaining of sore throat in the occupational health unit. Send home any employee with temperature ≥101ºF. Objectives Clinical Assessments and Interventions Referral for Medical Action Pharyngitis ● Need for antibiotic treatment. ● Temperature ≥101ºF. Follow-up Actions ● Discuss medication instructions and side effects. ● Reinforce avoidance of smoking, adequate nutrition and rest, dis- ease transmissibility, and preven- tive measures. Assess employee status. Provide comfort and instructions on self- care. Prevent infectious transmission among workforce. ● Examine employee’s throat, ears, and lymph nodes and obtain throat culture for streptococcus per standing order. ● Assess employee vital signs. ● Conduct rapid strep testing per standing order, if indicated. ● Administer analgesics per standing orders. ● Recommend salt water gargles (1/4 teaspoon salt in 1/2 glass water) as needed and admin- ister decongestant, if needed, per standing order, if no contraindications. ● Advise employee not to smoke. ● May suck on throat lozenges or ice chips to relieve pain. ● Encourage employee to maintain adequate nutrition, increased fluid intake, and adequate rest. ● Use humidifier to help loosen mucous and reduce dry throat. ● Discuss disease transmission and preven- tion of exposure to others. ● Advise employee to wash hands regularly, avoid touching eyes or mouth, and cover mouth when coughing or sneezing. Guideline continues on next page
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