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Paediatric urinary tract infection — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateDysuriaPaediatric urinary tract infectionMCCQE Part 1

A 14-month-old girl has fever without source and foul-smelling urine. Urinalysis from catheter specimen shows leukocytes and nitrites. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: C — Send urine culture and start empiric antibiotics while awaiting results

A febrile toddler with catheter urinalysis suggesting UTI should have culture confirmation and empiric antibiotics. Bag urine specimens are prone to contamination and should not be used for definitive culture diagnosis. Timely treatment reduces morbidity and possible renal complications.

Reference: Canadian Paediatric Society UTI in infants and children statement