Quote:
Originally Posted by Trapper John
Now to the question of starting TS on antibiotics - probably contraindicated IMO. I don't know what the 18Ds carry these days, but I think the choice of antibiotic would be better left to the attending at a primary care facility.
Maybe some of you Docs and AD 18Ds could discuss this point (pros and cons) a bit more. I would be interested to read what you all think.
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I double checked this with one of our EM faculty, and he agreed that an empiric antibiotic, even if its not perfect, should be administered immediately. Studies show that even if the ABX isn't the perfect choice, early administration in serious cases like this makes a real difference in outcomes. He also mentioned that while something like Rocephin might not cover all the possible bugs, it would cover most of the ones that would produce a rapid sepsis in a patient such as this. (again, not arguing its the perfect drug... just something I'm pretty sure 18D's still have around.)