Question

A 10-day-old term infant is brought to the emergency department with a rectal temperature of 38.3°C, poor feeding and lethargy. Examination reveals no focal signs of infection. What is the most appropriate management strategy according to contemporary Australian paediatric fever guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Admit for full septic workup and commence empirical intravenous antibiotics

Answer

Provide Paracetamol and discharge with review in 24 hours if still febrile

Answer

Arrange outpatient blood tests and review in 48 hours

Answer

Reassure parents that fever is common in neonates and no action is required

Answer

Give oral Amoxicillin and manage at home

Practice question

A 10-day-old term infant is brought to the emergency department with a rectal temperature of 38.3°C, poor feeding and lethargy. Examination reveals no focal signs of infection. What is the most appropriate management strategy according to contemporary Australian paediatric fever guidelines?