A 20-year-old university student presents with a 1-day history of fever, headache, neck stiffness, and photophobia. On examination, he is drowsy and h...

Question

A 20-year-old university student presents with a 1-day history of fever, headache, neck stiffness, and photophobia. On examination, he is drowsy and has a non-blanching petechial rash on his trunk and limbs. What is the single most important immediate action in primary care or the emergency department?

Accepted Answer

Administer intravenous benzylpenicillin (or cefotaxime if penicillin allergic)

Answer

Perform lumbar puncture

Answer

Administer oral paracetamol and send home with safety netting

Answer

Request urgent CT head

Answer

Administer intravenous dexamethasone

mrcem sba MCQ (SBA): Meningococcal Septicaemia