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This table should assist primary care clinicians in the structured management of acute bacterial conjunctivitis ( based on guidance by NICE CKS )
| Step | Action | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Initial Assessment | Explain that bacterial conjunctivitis usually clears on its own within 5–7 days. |
| 2 | Treatment Options | If severe or requiring fast relief, consider topical antibiotics. Explain the "delayed treatment" strategy: start antibiotics only if no improvement after 3 days. |
| 3 | Topical Antibiotics | â—‹ Chloramphenicol 0.5% drops: 1 drop every 2 hours initially, reduce frequency later. â—‹ Chloramphenicol 1% ointment: Apply 3-4 times daily. â—‹ Fusidic acid 1% drops: 1 drop twice daily. Continue until 48 hours after resolution. |
| 4 | School Attendance | No formal exclusion period, but local policies may differ. |
| 5 | Provide Written Information | Share patient information resources, and explain when to seek urgent medical attention. |
| 6 | Follow-up | Confirm diagnosis and symptom resolution; arrange further visit if needed. |
| 7 | Re-attendance | If symptoms persist, consider swabs for viral and bacterial cultures and empirical topical antibiotics if not already tried. |
| 8 | Referral | Refer to ophthalmology if symptoms last more than 7-10 days after starting treatment. |
Conjunctivitis: contact lens use
| Step | Action | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Immediate Action | Advise to stop using contact lenses immediately.... |
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