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A 19-year-old university student presents to A&E with sudden-onset severe headache described as 'the worst headache of my life'. She also has neck stiffness, photophobia, and a fever of 39.2°C. A non-blanching petechial rash is noted on her trunk and lower limbs.
What is the most important immediate action?
What is the most important immediate action?
is the key mechanism of action.
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Deep dive
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This is a classic presentation of meningococcal meningitis/septicaemia — the non-blanching petechial rash is pathognomonic. NICE guidelines mandate that empirical IV antibiotics (ceftriaxone 2g) should be given immediately and must not be delayed for investigations. Blood cultures should ideally be taken before but must not delay treatment. Dexamethasone should be given if pneumococcal meningitis is suspected.
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Drug mechanism of action