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Community-Acquired Pneumonia — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyRespiratoryCommunity-Acquired PneumoniaRACP Paediatrics

A 6-year-old child is diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia. He has a temperature of 39.5°C, respiratory rate 40/min, and is mildly dehydrated but able to tolerate oral fluids. CXR shows right lower lobe consolidation. What is the first-line antibiotic?

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Correct answer: C — Oral amoxicillin

For uncomplicated community-acquired pneumonia in children who are well enough for oral therapy, high-dose oral amoxicillin (25 mg/kg/dose TDS) is the recommended first-line treatment. S. pneumoniae is the most common bacterial cause. Macrolides are added only if atypical pathogens are suspected.

Reference: Therapeutic Guidelines – 2024 – Antibiotic: Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Children