Question

A 56-year-old man receiving chemotherapy for lymphoma presents with a temperature of 38.8°C and rigors. His neutrophil count is 0.3 × 10⁹/L. Blood pressure is 100/60 mmHg and heart rate 110 beats/min. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Administer broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics within 1 hour

Answer

Wait for blood culture results before giving antibiotics

Answer

Treat with oral antibiotics and review in 24 hours

Answer

Reassure and repeat full blood count in 48 hours

Answer

Discharge with advice to return if fever persists

Practice question

A 56-year-old man receiving chemotherapy for lymphoma presents with a temperature of 38.8°C and rigors. His neutrophil count is 0.3 × 10⁹/L. Blood pressure is 100/60 mmHg and heart rate 110 beats/min. What is the most appropriate immediate management?