Question

A 52-year-old woman receiving adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer presents with a temperature of 38.5°C and rigors. Her neutrophil count is 0.3 × 10⁹/L. Blood pressure is 100/60 mmHg and heart rate 110 beats/min. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Commence broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics immediately and obtain blood cultures

Answer

Discharge with oral antibiotics and daily review

Answer

Observe for 4 hours before giving antibiotics to see if fever persists

Answer

Wait for culture results before starting antibiotics

Answer

Give paracetamol only and review in 24 hours

Practice question

A 52-year-old woman receiving adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer presents with a temperature of 38.5°C and rigors. Her neutrophil count is 0.3 × 10⁹/L. Blood pressure is 100/60 mmHg and heart rate 110 beats/min. What is the most appropriate immediate management?