The study aims to find which children with chest infections benefit from being prescribed antibiotics. Most children who see the doctor with a chest infection currently get antibiotics and the evidence from studies so far suggests that most children do not benefit from having antibiotics. This is the first time in the world anybody has done this particular research. The results will help develop national and, possibly international guidelines for doctors to use in the future.
If you and your child decide to take part in the study:
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You will be asked some questions about your child’s chest infection.
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You will be given some study medication for your child – which may be an antibiotic or a dummy antibiotic.
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You will be given a study diary to fill in until your child is feeling better.
This visit should take about 5 minutes.
This visit should take about 15 minutes.