Scenario
A 45‑year‑old man with no significant past medical history presents with a 3‑day history of fever (38.5 °C), productive cough, pleuritic chest pain, and mild dyspnea. He is haemodynamically stable (BP 125/80, HR 95, RR 20, SpO₂ 94% on room air). Laboratory tests show WBC 12 × 10⁹/L. Chest X‑ray demonstrates a right lower‑lobe consolidation. His CURB‑65 score is 1 (age < 65 but BUN normal), indicating inpatient—or close outpatient—management.
Question:
Which empiric antibiotic regimen is most appropriate for this patient?
A) IV ceftriaxone + IV azithromycin
B) IV ampicillin–sulbactam + IV azithromycin
C) IV levofloxacin monotherapy
D) IV ceftaroline + IV azithromycin