Validation of a CDSA Strategy to Reduce Antibiotic Prescription in Senegal

Validation of an Assisted Medical Care Strategy Composed of a Clinical Decision Support System and RDTs to Reduce Antibiotic Prescription in Non-severe Acute Disease in Children 15 Years Old and Younger in Senegal

This trial aims to validate a novel clinical care strategy based on a electronic clinical decision support algorithm (CDSA) combined with point of care rapid diagnostic tests by evaluating its impact on antibiotic prescription and clinical outcome of children and adolescent presenting at primary healthcare facilities with non-severe acute illness compared to routine practice. The trial also aims to assess the usability of the CDSA strategy. The study will be conducted in primary healthcare facilities across different epidemiological regions of Senegal.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ongoing fever or diarrhea
• ongoing fever will be defined objectively or as a reported fever, defined as : axillary temperature ≥37.5°C or tympanic, oral or rectal temperature ≥38.0°C; and fever duration ≤ 10 days
• ongoing diarrhea will be defined as at least 3 abnormal stools during the last 24hrs
• First consultation for the current illness
• Feasibility of contact between the patient (or his/her designated relative) and the study team at day 3 and day 7
• Written informed consent by the caretaker/legally acceptable representative

Exclusion Criteria:

• Infants less than 6 months of age
• Age ≥ 15 years
• Clinical status requiring immediate transfer to an appropriate care facility/ severe illness