Effect of Modality on Discharge Instruction in Patients Receiving Outpatient Antibiotic Prescriptions From the Emergency Department

This is a prospective randomized trial that includes consenting patients discharged with
outpatient antibiotics. Health literacy is assessed using a validated health literacy
assessment, the Newest Vital Sign (NVS). Patients are randomized to a discharge instruction
modality: 1) standard of care, typed and verbal medication and case-specific instructions;
2) standard of care plus text messaged instructions sent to the patient's cell phone; or 3)
standard of care plus voicemailed instructions sent to the patient's cell phone. Antibiotic
pick-up is verified with the patient's pharmacy at 72 hours. Patients are called at 30 days
to determine antibiotic compliance.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Emergency department patient being prescribed an outpatient antibiotic or the parent
of a patient under the age of 18 being prescribed on outpatient antibiotic

Exclusion Criteria:

- Doesn't have a cell phone that can receive text messages and voicemail messages

- Unable to provide informed consent

- Prisoners