Question

A 67-year-old man is admitted with community-acquired pneumonia. Two hours later, the nurse calls you because he looks more unwell. Observations: temperature 38.6°C, respiratory rate 28/min, oxygen saturation 92% on air, pulse 120 bpm, blood pressure 88/52 mmHg, new onset confusion. The nurse has correctly calculated his NEWS2 as 7. What is the single most appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Request urgent senior medical review and consider escalation to a higher level of care

Answer

Repeat observations in 4 hours and continue current treatment

Answer

Prescribe prophylactic low molecular weight heparin

Answer

Arrange a routine medical review on the post-take ward round the next morning

Answer

Prescribe oral Paracetamol for pyrexia and reassess later

Practice question