A 50-year-old woman with early breast cancer presented with fatigue to the accident and emergency department on day 7 of her first adjuvant chemotherapy cycle. On examination, her temperature was 38.5°C, her pulse was 110 beats per minute and her blood pressure was 110/70 mmHg. A full blood count was requested. What is the most appropriate next step?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics are the most appropriate next step for a patient presenting with fever and potential signs of sepsis (evidenced by tachycardia and a history of recent chemotherapy, which places her at high risk for neutropenia and infection). Immediate empirical antibiotic therapy is crucial in managing febrile neutropenia in cancer patients to reduce morbidity and mortality. Waiting for full blood count results or opting for oral antibiotics could delay necessary urgent care.

A 50-Year-Old Woman with Early Breast Cancer Presented with Fatigue