Question 1

A patient presenting with nasal congestion, fever, purulent nasal discharge, headache, and facial pain begins treatment with amoxicillin-clavulanate. At a follow-up visit 10 days after initiation of treatment, the patient continues to have purulent discharge, congestion, and facial pain without fever. What is the next course of action for this patient?

A) A CT scan of the paranasal sinuses
B) A referral to an otolaryngologist
C) An antibiotic based on likely resistant organism
D) A trial of azithromycin

C

Accepted Answer

Given the patient's lack of improvement after initial antibiotic therapy, the next step is to consider an antibiotic targeting likely resistant organisms. This approach addresses potential antibiotic resistance that could be causing the treatment failure.

Question 2

Which are potential complications of chronic or recurrent sinusitis? (Select all that apply.)&#10;A) Allergic rhinitis&#10;B) Asthma&#10;C) Meningitis&#10;D) Orbital infection&#10;E) Osteomyelitis

Accepted Answer

Meningitis, orbital infection, and osteomyelitis are potential complications of chronic or recurrent sinusitis.

Question 3

A patient with allergic rhinitis develops acute sinusitis and begins treatment with an antibiotic. Which measure may help with symptomatic relief for patients with underlying allergic rhinitis?&#10;A) Intranasal steroids&#10;B) Oral mucolytics&#10;C) Saline solution rinses&#10;D) Topical decongestants

Accepted Answer

Intranasal steroids can help reduce inflammation and congestion associated with allergic rhinitis, providing symptomatic relief.

Deck 74: Sinusitis