Pharmacy First CPD: Impetigo

This is the latest in our series of modules designed to support pharmacists to manage common conditions and deliver the NHS Pharmacy First service in England and similar schemes elsewhere in the UK. 

It covers the assessment and management of impetigo. Drawing on the NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries for impetigo and the PGDs for this condition, the module will support clinical decision-making about when treatment for impetigo could be supplied and when referral is needed. 

Links to all the PGDs can be found in the Resources section.

After completing this module you will be able to:

• Assess skin appearance and relevant history to decide whether to treat or refer cases of impetigo or infected insect bites
• Know which conditions and red flags require urgent referral
• Decide whether antibiotics or symptomatic treatment alone is warranted and explain the reasoning to the patient
• Work with local GP practices to give consistent advice and demonstrate good antimicrobial stewardship at all times.

Contributing author: Dr Christine Clark