A 7-week-old infant has fever 38.7°C, reduced feeding, and mottled skin. HR 188, capillary refill 4 seconds, and no focus is found on examination.

Question

A 7-week-old infant has fever 38.7°C, reduced feeding, and mottled skin. HR 188, capillary refill 4 seconds, and no focus is found on examination. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Full sepsis evaluation, broad-spectrum parenteral antibiotics, and admission

Answer

Antipyretic treatment and reassessment at home

Answer

Urine dipstick alone and discharge if negative

Answer

Chest radiography as the sole investigation before discharge

Answer

Oral amoxicillin with next-day primary care review

Febrile young infant — RCPSC EM MCQ

A 7-week-old infant has fever 38.7°C, reduced feeding, and mottled skin. HR 188, capillary refill 4 seconds, and no focus is found on examination. What is the most appropriate initial management?