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Sepsis recognition — DIPIMC MCQ

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ModerateMedical EmergenciesSepsis recognitionDIPIMCDipIMC

A 68-year-old with a long-term urinary catheter is found confused, with a temperature of 38.9 degrees Celsius, heart rate 118, respiratory rate 24 and systolic blood pressure 92 mmHg. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

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Correct answer: C — Recognise sepsis; give fluids and transfer urgently

This patient meets several red-flag criteria for sepsis (new confusion, tachypnoea, tachycardia and hypotension), so the response is to give oxygen, start intravenous fluids, and transfer urgently with a pre-alert for senior review and antibiotics. Routine review or oral therapy at home risks rapid deterioration. Fluids should not be withheld in a hypotensive septic patient. Pearl: a raised NEWS2 with a suspected source should trigger time-critical escalation rather than watchful waiting.

Reference: NICE NG51 (Sepsis); JRCALC Clinical Guidelines