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Febrile infant sepsis risk — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardPaediatric emergenciesFebrile infant sepsis riskRCPSC EM

CTAS 2. A 24-day-old has rectal temperature 38.4°C and poor feeding. HR is 182, capillary refill 4 seconds, and exam shows no focus. Urinalysis is pending, WBC is 5, and CRP is elevated. What is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: D — Full sepsis evaluation, IV antibiotics, and admission

Febrile neonates, especially with poor perfusion, require full serious bacterial infection evaluation, empiric IV antibiotics, and admission.

Reference: Canadian Paediatric Society febrile infant guidance