Neonatal sepsis — DRCOG MCQ
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Correct answer: E — Investigate and start empirical antibiotics without awaiting the test results
Explanation lettering: C = shown as B · D = shown as C · E = shown as D · B = shown as E
B is correct. Rupture of membranes for more than 24 hours before a term birth and suspected chorioamnionitis are two non-red-flag risk factors, so investigate and start antibiotics without awaiting results. C applies only when there is one non-red-flag factor or indicator and monitoring is chosen. D ignores both risks. E is permitted only within a prospective audit in specified inpatient settings. A wrongly makes initial treatment depend on test results.
Reference: NICE NG195, Neonatal infection—risk factors and clinical indicators: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng195/chapter/Risk-factors-and-clinical-indicators-early-onset-neonatal-infection