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Paediatric sepsis — DipIMC MCQ

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ModeratePaediatric and Obstetric EmergenciesPaediatric sepsisDipIMC

A 5-year-old is mottled, lethargic and febrile with cold hands. Respiratory rate is 38/min, capillary refill is 5 seconds and parents report reduced urine. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: A — Give oxygen, recognise high-risk sepsis and arrange urgent transfer with pre-alert

Give oxygen, recognise high-risk sepsis and arrange urgent transfer with pre-alert is the best answer because mottling, lethargy and prolonged capillary refill suggest paediatric septic shock. Provide reassurance and reassess after transport is less appropriate because reassurance is inadequate for an evolving major trauma problem; Use oral analgesia as the main treatment is less appropriate because oral therapy is inadequate or unreliable in major trauma. Defer treatment until a senior hospital doctor reviews the patient and Immobilise every joint and delay departure for a detailed examination are also suboptimal because they move attention away from the key pre-hospital priority.. The key DipIMC principle is to treat immediate reversible threats, communicate clearly and move the patient toward the right definitive care.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; NICE Sepsis NG51