Question

A 3-week-old neonate presents with poor feeding, lethargy, and temperature of 100.8 F. The infant appears irritable with a bulging fontanelle. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Urinalysis and discharge if normal

Answer

Outpatient follow-up with close monitoring

Answer

Blood culture and oral antibiotics

Answer

Full sepsis workup and intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics

Answer

Lumbar puncture only

Practice question

A 3-week-old neonate presents with poor feeding, lethargy, and temperature of 100.8 F. The infant appears irritable with a bulging fontanelle. What is the most appropriate initial management?