Repeated USMLE Questions Step 2 CK- 324

A 26 year-old man with one-week history of sore throat presents today with fever, hoarseness, difficulty breathing and drooling.  On physical examination, his temperature is 102.3 F and has inspiratory stridor.

What is the most likely next action for this patient?

A-Admit to the intensive care unit

B-Prescribe broad spectrum antibiotic

C-Throat swab and culture

D-Serology for infectious mononucleosis

E-Ultrasonography of the neck

Answer:






This patient most likely has acute epiglottitis with impending airway obstruction. He needs to be admitted instantly to intensive care unit. H. influenza is the most common cause of this condition.

The correct answer is A