1) A 29-year-old man has a cough that has persisted
for 2 weeks. During the first week of his symptoms, he noted low-grade fevers,
nasal congestion, and a mild cough. During the past 2 weeks, his symptoms have
progressed to approximately 15 severe, spasmodic coughing episodes per day. He
denies post-tussive emesis, heartburn symptoms, or a history of allergies or
wheezing. On examination, he has a temperature of 37.3°C, a heart rate of 72
beats per minute, a blood pressure of 105/70 mm Hg, and a respiratory rate of
18 breaths per minute. His oropharynx is clear without erythema, tonsillar
exudates, or cobblestone appearance. His lungs are clear to auscultation. Which
one of the following treatment approaches is most appropriate for this patient? *
