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Severe community-acquired pneumonia — RACP Written MCQ

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ModerateRespiratorySevere community-acquired pneumoniaRACP Written

A 70-year-old man presents with fever, pleuritic pain and confusion. Respiratory rate is 32/min, blood pressure 86/54 mmHg, urea 11 mmol/L and oxygen saturation 90% on room air. Chest X-ray shows right lower lobe consolidation. What is the most important next step?

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Correct answer: B — Admit for intravenous antibiotics, oxygen and sepsis management

Hypotension, tachypnoea, confusion and raised urea indicate severe community-acquired pneumonia requiring urgent hospital management and empiric antibiotics.

Reference: Australian Asthma Handbook; TSANZ guidance; Therapeutic Guidelines: Respiratory