skip to main content

Abscess in Well-Controlled HIV — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardInfection Prevention & ControlAbscess in Well-Controlled HIVSCE Infectious Diseases

A peripheral cannula site becomes painful and erythematous with a palpable cord, but there is no purulence or systemic illness. What infection-prevention action is most appropriate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Remove the cannula promptly, assess for thrombophlebitis and infection, and resite only if ongoing intravenous access is required after review

The best answer is “Remove the cannula promptly, assess for thrombophlebitis and infection, and resite only if ongoing intravenous access is required after review”. An unnecessary or inflamed peripheral device should be removed; escalation depends on extension, purulence, bacteraemia or systemic features. “Obtain CT before removing the device” is less appropriate because it conflicts with the clinical discriminator or cited guidance. “Leave the cannula in place and give oral vancomycin” is less appropriate because it conflicts with the clinical discriminator or cited guidance. “Refer every case to a tertiary infectious-diseases centre before device removal” is less appropriate because it conflicts with the clinical discriminator or cited guidance. “Continue using the inflamed cannula while awaiting blood cultures” is less appropriate because it conflicts with the clinical discriminator or cited guidance.

Reference: NICE CG139 healthcare-associated infection recommendations: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg139/chapter/Recommendations