Associations with antibiotic prescribing for acute exacerbation of COPD in primary care : secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial

Background C-reactive protein (CRP) point-of-care testing can reduce antibiotic use in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) in primary care, without compromising patient care. Further safe reductions may be possible. Aim To investigate the associations between presenting features and antibiotic prescribing in patients with AECOPD in primary care. Design and setting Secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial of participants presenting with AECOPD in primary care (the PACE trial). Method Clinicians collected participants’ demographic features, comorbid illnesses, clinical signs, and symptoms. Antibiotic prescribing decisions were made after participants were randomised to receive a point-of-care CRP measurement or usual care. Multivariable regression models were fitted to explore the association between patient and clinical features and antibiotic prescribing, and extended to further explore any interactions with CRP measurement category (CRP not measured, CRP