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Febrile neutropenia with sepsis — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardInfectious disease emergenciesFebrile neutropenia with sepsisRCPSC EM

A 13-year-old with sickle cell disease develops fever, hypoxemia and a new lobar infiltrate during admission for vaso-occlusive pain. What is the initial management bundle?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Give oxygen, antibiotics and incentive spirometry; consult hematology about transfusion

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · A = shown as B · B = shown as E

C is correct for acute chest syndrome. D cannot distinguish infection from infarction and omits essential care. E risks overhydration and pulmonary worsening. A uses an unsafe oxygen target and disposition. B assumes PE and ignores the syndrome-specific bundle.

Reference: Canadian Paediatric Society, Acute complications in children with sickle cell disease: https://cps.ca/en/documents/position/acute-complications-with-sickle-cell