Question

A 7-year-old boy in a remote First Nations community presents with fever, cough and increased work of breathing. The nursing station has limited resources. SpO₂ is 89% on room air, and there is lower lobe consolidation on auscultation. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Administer oxygen, start parenteral antibiotics if available and arrange urgent transfer to a higher-level facility

Answer

Oral antibiotics and discharge home

Answer

Reassure and schedule review in 48 hours

Answer

Start inhaled bronchodilators only

Answer

Wait for chest X-ray before deciding on transfer

Practice question

A 7-year-old boy in a remote First Nations community presents with fever, cough and increased work of breathing. The nursing station has limited resources. SpO₂ is 89% on room air, and there is lower lobe consolidation on auscultation. What is the most appropriate initial management?