Question

A 4-week-old baby is brought to A&E with a fever of 38.5°C, poor feeding and lethargy. On examination the baby appears irritable with a bulging fontanelle. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Admit urgently, give IV broad-spectrum antibiotics and consider lumbar puncture

Answer

Give oral antibiotics and review in 24 hours

Answer

Arrange outpatient lumbar puncture

Answer

Give IM benzylpenicillin in the community and send home

Answer

Reassure the parents and provide antipyretics only

Practice question

A 4-week-old baby is brought to A&E with a fever of 38.5°C, poor feeding and lethargy. On examination the baby appears irritable with a bulging fontanelle. What is the most appropriate immediate management?