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Severe community-acquired pneumonia — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardRespiratory emergenciesSevere community-acquired pneumoniaRCPSC EM

A 58-year-old with diabetes presents with fever, cough, and confusion. BP is 86/48 mmHg after 1 L crystalloid, RR 34/min, oxygen saturation is 88%, lactate is 4.6 mmol/L, and chest radiograph shows right lower lobe consolidation. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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

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Correct answer: C — Septic shock due to severe community-acquired pneumonia

Septic shock due to severe community-acquired pneumonia is correct: the clues indicate Severe community-acquired pneumonia and this option addresses the immediate ED priority. The distractors delay care, target a less likely problem, or are unsafe in this physiology.

Reference: BC Emergency Department Sepsis Guidelines; Surviving Sepsis principles