Clinical Scenario:
A 7-year-old boy with a ventricular septal defect is admitted with persistent fever for 2 weeks. Three sets of blood cultures have been obtained before starting antibiotics. Infective endocarditis is strongly suspected based on clinical findings.
What is the most appropriate empirical antibiotic regimen while awaiting culture results?
A. Ceftriaxone
B. Meropenem
C. Penicillin G
D. Vancomycin + Ceftriaxone
E. Vancomycin alone
Correct answer & Explanation:
Correct Answer: D. Vancomycin + Ceftriaxone
Explanation
Empirical therapy should cover Staphylococcus aureus, viridans streptococci, and Enterococcus until culture results are available. A combination of vancomycin and ceftriaxone provides broad coverage.
