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Paediatric wheeze red flags — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRespiratory TherapeuticsPaediatric wheeze red flagsGPhC CRA

A mother asks for cough medicine for a 3-year-old with wheeze, subcostal recession and poor feeding. The child is drowsy, respiratory rate is 48/min and oxygen saturation on the pharmacy pulse oximeter is 91%. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: B — Arrange emergency medical assessment immediately

The child has respiratory distress, poor feeding, drowsiness and low oxygen saturation. These are red flags requiring urgent assessment rather than symptomatic cough treatment. The pharmacist should prioritise emergency referral and not delay care with over-the-counter medicines.

Reference: NICE CKS