Asking the right questions
Always use the WWHAM questions to help you identify thrush and select the right product for customers.
WWHAM Questions
- Who is the medicine for?
- What are the symptoms?
- How long have the symptoms been present?
- Action already taken?
- Medicines taken for other reasons?
As customers are often embarrassed about having thrush, when you do ask questions it's essential that you handle any requests for help or product recommendations discreetly, with understanding and sensitivity. Ask questions as part of a conversation. It is important not to make customers feel as though they are being interrogated.
Always refer customers to the pharmacist for more advice if they:
- Are under 16 years of age or over 60 years
- Have had more than two episodes of thrush in the past six months
- Have additional symptoms such as pain or bleeding
- Have offensive-smelling or blood-stained discharge
- Are taking other medicines
- Are allergic to antifungal treatments
- Are pregnant
- Have tried a treatment but the symptoms are still present a week later.
