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Meningococcemia — ABEM Board MCQ

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HardPediatric emergenciesMeningococcemiaABEM Board

A 6-year-old girl presents as triage level 1 with fever, leg pain, confusion, petechiae, purpura, BP 76/38 mm Hg, and lactate 6.0 mmol/L. Capillary refill is 5 seconds. Which of the following is the most important immediate intervention?

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

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Correct answer: D — Immediate ceftriaxone and aggressive septic shock resuscitation

Purpura, shock, and altered mental status suggest meningococcemia; antibiotics and resuscitation must not be delayed.

Reference: Surviving Sepsis Campaign pediatric guidance; CDC meningococcal guidance