Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with acute onset of fever, irritability, and lethargy. Associated symptoms include vomiting, poor feeding, and photophobia. No history of recent trauma or travel. Vaccination status: [Up-to-date/Delayed]. No known sick contacts.
Clinical Examination Findings
Vitals: T [Temp], HR [Rate], RR [Rate], BP [BP], SpO2 [Value]. General: Ill-appearing, lethargic, consolable/inconsolable. HEENT: Bulging fontanelle (if infant), nuchal rigidity present/absent. Neuro: Kernig and Brudzinski signs [Positive/Negative], GCS [Score], pupils equal and reactive. Skin: Presence/absence of petechial or purpuric rash.
Treatment Protocol
Admit to PICU. Empiric IV antibiotics initiated: [Ceftriaxone/Cefotaxime] + [Vancomycin]. Dexamethasone [Dose] administered prior to/with first antibiotic dose. Fluid resuscitation: [Type/Rate]. Seizure precautions and neuro-checks every [Frequency].