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Isolated subsegmental pulmonary embolism — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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HardPulmonary Vascular DiseaseIsolated subsegmental pulmonary embolismSCE Respiratory

An adult is admitted with high-severity community-acquired pneumonia. Antibiotics and organ support have started; there is no contraindication to corticosteroid. Which adjunctive plan matches NICE NG250?

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Correct answer: B — A 4-to-7-day corticosteroid course beginning with intravenous hydrocortisone

NICE NG250 advises considering a corticosteroid for adults admitted with high-severity CAP, usually for 4 to 7 days, beginning with intravenous hydrocortisone or an equivalent. It is not routine for low-severity CAP, and risks such as hyperglycaemia, delirium and secondary infection must be considered.

Reference: NICE NG250 recommendations for pneumonia (Published 16 July 2025): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng250/chapter/Recommendations; NICE NG250 rationale for pneumonia recommendations (Published 16 July 2025): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng250/chapter/Rationale-and-impact