A 20-year-old college student arrives with fever, myalgias, and rash. Triage acuity is ESI 1; T 104.2 F, BP 82/46 mm Hg, HR 144/min. He is confused

Question

A 20-year-old college student arrives with fever, myalgias, and rash. Triage acuity is ESI 1; T 104.2 F, BP 82/46 mm Hg, HR 144/min. He is confused with petechiae and purpura on the trunk and legs. Neck stiffness is mild. Which of the following is the most appropriate disposition?

Accepted Answer

Admit to the ICU with droplet precautions and immediate IV ceftriaxone

Answer

Send to outpatient dermatology

Answer

Observe without antibiotics until culture results

Answer

Discharge with oral antihistamines

Answer

Discharge after antipyretics

Meningococcemia — ABEM Board MCQ

A 20-year-old college student arrives with fever, myalgias, and rash. Triage acuity is ESI 1; T 104.2 F, BP 82/46 mm Hg, HR 144/min. He is confused with petechiae and purpura on the trunk and legs. Neck stiffness is mild. Which of the following is the most appropriate disposition?