A 15-month-old boy is evaluated in the pediatric clinic for a 3-day history of high fever, productive cough, and rapid breathing. His mother reports that he has been less active than usual but continues to drink fluids adequately. His medical history is unremarkable, though he missed his 12-month well-child visit because the family recently relocated. The mother expresses concern that he currently uses only about 5 distinct words, such as "mama," "dada," and "ball." She also asks if he can receive his missed vaccinations during today's visit.
Temperature is 39.1°C (102.4°F), heart rate is 148/min, and respiratory rate is 46/min. Blood pressure is 90/55 mm Hg, and oxygen saturation is 95% on room air.
Physical examination reveals an ill-appearing but consolable toddler. He walks independently around the examination room. Lung auscultation demonstrates localized crackles and decreased breath sounds over the right lower posterior lung field, with mild subcostal retractions. Cardiovascular examination is unremarkable.
Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?
- Prescribe high-dose oral amoxicillin and defer vaccinations until the acute illness resolvesCevap
- BPrescribe oral azithromycin and administer the missed vaccinations today
- CAdmit to the hospital and initiate intravenous vancomycin and ceftriaxone
- DPrescribe nebulized albuterol and oral dexamethasone, and defer vaccinations
- EPrescribe high-dose oral amoxicillin and refer the patient for a developmental evaluation