A patient with neutropenia after chemotherapy has a temperature of 38.5 degrees Celsius. What is the correct action?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Give IV broad-spectrum antibiotics within one hour
- Step 1: Neutropenic sepsis is an oncological emergency.
- Step 2: Antipseudomonal penicillin such as piperacillin-tazobactam is started immediately.
Answer
Give IV broad-spectrum antibiotics within one hour.
Why not the others: Give paracetamol and observe overnight, starting antibiotics only if the fever persists: Delay risks death. Wait for the blood culture results before starting any antimicrobial treatment: Culture takes days. Arrange review in the oncology clinic next week and advise fluids at home: Clinic next week is unsafe.
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