16th February 2025

A 27-year-old male, who was previously well, presents with a sore throat lasting 6 days, with trismus and fever lasting 2 days.

A 27-year-old male, who was previously well, presents with a sore throat lasting 6 days, with trismus and fever lasting 2 days.

On examination, there is swelling of the right side of the neck, and examination of the oropharynx reveals a fluctuant and extremely swollen right palatine tonsil, uvular deviation and an erythematous pharynx. 

He has a fever of 38.9°C, heart rate of 95, blood pressure of 110/71, respiratory rate of 22, saturations 98% on air.

What is the most important treatment?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.