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Early-onset neonatal sepsis — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateNeonatal DistressEarly-onset neonatal sepsisMCCQE Part 1

A term newborn develops respiratory distress, temperature instability and poor feeding at 10 hours of life. Maternal history includes prolonged rupture of membranes and intrapartum fever. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: C — Obtain cultures and start empiric intravenous antibiotics according to neonatal sepsis pathway

Respiratory distress plus systemic instability in a newborn with maternal infection risk requires evaluation and empiric IV antibiotics. Waiting can allow rapid deterioration. Transient tachypnoea is usually isolated respiratory distress without temperature instability or sepsis risk context.

Reference: Canadian Paediatric Society neonatal sepsis guidance