Using the Booklet

Task 6. Discussing self-help

• Providing parents with information about the minimal benefits from antibiotics is one thing, but most parents are looking for something positive that they can do for their child.
• Giving parents a positive message, reinforcing what they are doing that is likely to help, discouraging things that may be harmful, and giving advice on other things they can do, can all go a long way to make parents feel more in control (and help the child feel more comfortable).
• Try to reinforce the fact that the child’s own immune system is their best source of defence, and that they can help their child fight the infection by following a healthy lifestyle.
• Other advice (which is found on page six of the booklet), can be highlighted or discussed as appropriate.
• The following video clip demonstrates a discussion of the self-help section.