Question

A 43-year-old GP working in a remote Queensland community sees a 10-year-old boy with fever, headache, neck stiffness and a purpuric rash. According to RCH meningococcal disease guidelines, what is the most important immediate action while arranging urgent retrieval?

Accepted Answer

Start high-dose intravenous ceftriaxone immediately and consider IM or IO route if IV access delayed

Answer

Observe closely and await blood culture results

Answer

Delay antibiotics until lumbar puncture has been performed

Answer

Treat with oral amoxicillin only

Answer

Give steroids alone initially

Practice question

A 43-year-old GP working in a remote Queensland community sees a 10-year-old boy with fever, headache, neck stiffness and a purpuric rash. According to RCH meningococcal disease guidelines, what is the most important immediate action while arranging urgent retrieval?