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Community-acquired pneumonia — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfectionsCommunity-acquired pneumoniaGPhC CRA

A 76-year-old with fever, productive cough and pleuritic pain has respiratory rate 30/min and low blood pressure measured at home. His carer asks for OTC cough medicine. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: B — Refer urgently for assessment of possible severe pneumonia

Tachypnoea and low blood pressure in an older person with suspected pneumonia are red flags for severe illness. Urgent medical assessment is needed for severity scoring, oxygenation and antibiotic decision-making. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: NICE CKS; NICE antimicrobial prescribing