Provider Information

The Wisconsin Antibiotic Resistance Network (WARN) is a coalition of Wisconsin health care providers, professional organizations, and public health agencies concerned about antibiotic resistance and inappropriate antibiotic use.

Promoting Patient Satisfaction

• Recommend specific symptomatic therapy.
• Offer a contingency plan if symptoms worsen or fail to improve.
• Take time to explain the diagnosis and answer questions. Effective communication is more important than an antibiotic for patient satisfaction.
• Educate patients and provide educational materials on appropriate antibiotic use.

Preventing Respiratory Illness

Remind patients to practice good hygiene habits during cold and flu season.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash hands often, especially after coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Provide influenza vaccine to children 6-23 months and eligible adults.

Preventing Acute Otitis Media

• Talk with patients who are pregnant about breastfeeding for at least six months.
• Encourage parents to discontinue bottle propping.
• Discuss eliminating exposure to passive tobacco smoke.