Question

A 60-year-old man receiving chemotherapy for lymphoma presents with fever of 38.5 °C and rigors. His absolute neutrophil count is 0.3 × 10⁹/L. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Start broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics immediately

Answer

Observe and repeat blood count in 24 hours

Answer

Start oral amoxicillin as an outpatient

Answer

Give paracetamol only and discharge if afebrile

Answer

Delay antibiotics until a source is identified

Practice question

A 60-year-old man receiving chemotherapy for lymphoma presents with fever of 38.5 °C and rigors. His absolute neutrophil count is 0.3 × 10⁹/L. What is the most appropriate immediate management?