Question

A 2-week-old febrile neonate (temperature 38.5 °C) presents to the emergency department. He appears unsettled but not toxic. Examination does not reveal a clear focus of infection. According to paediatric fever guidelines, which management is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Full septic work-up including blood, urine and CSF cultures with empiric IV antibiotics and admission

Answer

Discharge with oral antibiotics and GP review in 24 hours

Answer

Urine dipstick only and discharge if normal

Answer

Chest X-ray only

Answer

Observation in ED for 4 hours without investigations or antibiotics

Practice question

A 2-week-old febrile neonate (temperature 38.5 °C) presents to the emergency department. He appears unsettled but not toxic. Examination does not reveal a clear focus of infection. According to paediatric fever guidelines, which management is most appropriate?