Summary

Sore throats can be a “pain in the neck” for both the patient and the clinician. However, based on available guidelines and treatment options, we can develop a rational game plan to treat the next patient we see with a “sore throat.” The absolute benefits of antibiotics are limited, and a lively discussion regarding their risks and benefits is sure to continue. Our main goals should be symptom relief and patient education.

Contributor Disclosures

Contributors

Dr. Reed is an assistant professior of emergency medicine at the Georgetown University and Washington Hospital Center’s Emergency Medicine Program, and is president of the Washington, D.C., Chapter of ACEP. Medical Editor Dr. Robert C. Solomon is an attending emergency physician at Southwest Regional Medical Center in Waynesburg, Pa., and clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.

Disclosures

In accordance with the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) standards and American College of Emergency Physicians policy, contributors and editors must disclose to the program audience the existence of significant financial interests in or relationships with manufacturers of commercial products that might have a direct interest in the subject matter. Dr. Reed and Dr. Solomon have disclosed that they have no significant relationships with or financial interests in any commercial companies that pertain to this educational activity.

“Focus On: Sore Throats—What Really Works?” has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the ACCME. ACEP is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians. ACEP designates this educational activity for a maximum of one Category 1 credit toward the AMA Physician’s Recognition Award. Each physician should claim only those credits that he or she actually earned doing the educational activity. “Focus On: Sore Throats—What Really Works?” is approved by ACEP for one ACEP Category 1 credit.

Disclaimer

ACEP makes every effort to ensure that contributors to College-sponsored programs are knowledgeable authorities in their fields. Participants are nevertheless advised that the statements and opinions expressed in this article are provided as guidelines and should not be construed as College policy. The material contained herein is not intended to establish policy, procedure, or a standard of care. The views expressed in this article are those of the contributors and not necessarily the opinion or recommendation of ACEP. The College disclaims any liability or responsibility for the consequences of any actions taken in reliance on those statements or opinions.