Question

30 yo F is evaluated for a 2 day hx of sore throat and fatigue. Reports anorexia, chills, fever, rhinorrhea, and a dry, persistent cough that keeps her away at night. Works as a school bus driver.Most appropriate management?

Answer 1

The most appropriate management for a 30-year-old woman with a sore throat, fever, and persistent cough is to perform a clinical evaluation to rule out infectious causes and proceed with supportive care, with further diagnostic testing as needed.

Step-by-step explanation:

The 30-year-old female presenting with a sore throat, fatigue, chills, fever, rhinorrhea, and a dry, persistent cough likely requires a clinical assessment to determine the underlying cause of her symptoms. Given her occupation as a school bus driver, it is important to consider the likelihood of infectious etiologies that can be transmitted to others. Potential differential diagnoses may include viral infections such as influenza, or bacterial infections like streptococcal pharyngitis. Appropriate management may begin with supportive care, such as hydration and antipyretics for fever and pain. A clinical evaluation may also include a rapid strep test or throat culture, and if necessary, a test for influenza. Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is confirmed. Isolating until fever has resolved and she feels better can prevent the spread of infectious illness to others. Given the severity of the cough and the fact that it disrupts sleep, a closer evaluation for other conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia might also be considered, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.