Investigations
Investigations to consider include:
- chest radiology - if there is tachypnoea and crepitation
- full blood count
- C-reactive protein
- blood cultures
- urea and electrolytes
- cough swab or sputum
- blood gases may be indicated in the very sick patient
Findings such as a neutrophilia or a raised C-reactive protein level may be suggestive, but are not diagnostic of a bacterial infection.
Reference
- Harris M, Clark J, Coote N, et al; British Thoracic Society Standards of Care Committee. British Thoracic Society guidelines for the management of community acquired pneumonia in children: update 2011. Thorax. 2011 Oct;66 Suppl 2:ii1-23.
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