A 68-year-old male currently undergoing chemotherapy for colon cancer presents to the ED with a fever. His last cycle of chemotherapy was 10 days ago.
His observations at triage are:
Temperature: 38.4°C
Blood Pressure: 118/75
Heart Rate: 92
Respiratory Rate: 16
SpO2: 97% on room air
You are currently managing a trauma call and will not be available for review for at least 60 minutes. The triage nurse asks for your management plan.
What is the most appropriate next step?
A
Wait for laboratory results before initiating treatment
B
Prescribe intravenous antibiotics and await review
C
Commence intravenous fluids and antipyretics
D
Defer management until senior review is available
E
Request urgent haematology consultation before starting treatment