QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Piperacillin/tazobactam could be used to treat neutropenic sepsis as it provides adequate coverage for the range of pathogens that can cause sepsis in neutropenic sepsis. However, it is not commonly used in combination with doxycycline.
10028150
e
Doxycycline and piperacillin/tazobactam
QuestionChoice
Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that may be used in combination therapy for neutropenic sepsis, but it is typically combined with a beta-lactam antibiotic like cefepime, not clindamycin. This combination does not provide broad coverage.
10028147
b
Gentamicin and clindamycin
QuestionChoice
This patient has neutropenic sepsis and active breast cancer. She is a high-risk patient, so she should be treated with empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics and hospitalised for further management. Treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam (Tazocin) is used as empiric therapy for febrile neutropenia in cancer patients because it provides coverage against a wide range of potential pathogens. Note: You should always check your local hospital guidelines and healthcare institution algorithms before deciding which antibiotics to prescribe.
10028146
a
Piperacillin/tazobactam
QuestionChoice
Amoxicillin-clavulanate (Co-amoxiclav) is not typically used as initial empiric therapy for neutropenic sepsis, as it lacks the broad-spectrum coverage needed for this high-risk condition.
10028148
c
Amoxicillin-clavulanate
QuestionChoice
This combination lacks coverage against resistant Gram-positive bacteria and some Gram-negative pathogens.
10028149
d
Azithromycin and ceftriaxone
Concept
Chapter
2693
6036
Neutropenic sepsis
Topic
225
Oncology and Palliative Care
18027
An 81-year-old woman presents to the emergency department reporting a high fever, chills and weakness. She has a medical history of breast cancer and is receiving chemotherapy. She has no known allergies.


Physical examination reveals hypotension and signs of sepsis. Blood tests show a neutrophil count of 0.2 x 10^9/L *(normal range = 2.0-7.5 x 10^9/L)*.


Which of the following is the most appropriate initial treatment for this patient?
a