MRCP2-2831

MRCP2-2831

A 35-year-old homeless, intravenous drug user is brought to the emergency department by his concerned companions. The patient is having difficulty speaking clearly and has been experiencing progressive weakness, particularly in his face, along with difficulty swallowing and some double vision.

During the examination, the patient displays a broad gait and flaccid weakness throughout his body. Cranial nerve examination reveals ptosis, ocular and facial muscle weakness. However, the patient’s GCS is normal, and the rest of his exam is unremarkable.

Upon further inquiry, the group accompanying the patient reports that another one of their friends was admitted to the hospital with similar symptoms a few days ago. The hospital’s computer system reveals that this friend’s blood cultures grew a gram-positive, anaerobic bacillus.

What urgent care should be provided to the patient?