What are signs and/or symptoms of Sepsis?

Question

Sepsis is a life-threatening systemic reaction caused when microorganisms such as bacteria enter the body. When caring for a patient who has a UTI what signs and symptoms would you be on alert for if you suspect that your patient is going into septic shock?

Answer 1

Answer 2

When determining if a patient is septic or not, it is useful to use the SIRS criteria. These signs and symptoms include fever of >100.4 or <96.8, WBC >12,000, tachypnea and tachycardia. If the patient has these symptoms along with a suspected source (UTI symptoms or positive U/A), then they are septic. However, if they have lactic acidosis, then they meet criteria for severe sepsis. With a low blood pressure (SBP <90), the patient then meets criteria for septic shock.

Answer 3

Septic shock is a serious condition that occurs when an infection spreads throughout the body and leads to a rapid drop in blood pressure. Some signs and symptoms to watch out for if you suspect that a patient with a UTI may be developing septic shock include:

1. Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
2. Rapid heart rate
3. Fever or low body temperature
4. Confusion or disorientation
5. Decreased urine output
6. Pale or discolored skin
7. Low blood pressure
8. Dizziness or fainting

It's important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect that a patient with a UTI may be developing septic shock, as this condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Answer 4

When caring for a patient hospitalized for UTI the risk for urosepsis is high. Monitor vital signs every four hours. Monitor patients with sepsis screening protocols. Patients may present with low blood pressure, increased heart rate, temperature (101.3 or higher), rigors, or increased white blood cell count. Three or more symptoms begin sepsis treatment.