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Febrile infant — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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HardPediatrics (well-child, chronic management)Febrile infantUSMLE Step 3

A 5-week-old term infant has rectal temperature 38.4°C. He appears well and is feeding. Urinalysis is positive for leukocyte esterase. CBC and inflammatory markers are pending. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: C — Evaluate for serious bacterial infection using age-based febrile infant pathway

Febrile infants aged 8 to 60 days require structured evaluation for serious bacterial infection, including urine testing and risk stratification.

Reference: AAP Febrile Infant Clinical Practice Guideline