Chapter 25: Shock- Septic Shock

Question 1

What is the definition?

Answer 1

Documented infection and hypotension

Question 2

What are the signs/symptoms?

Answer 2

Initial—

• vasodilation→ warm skin and full pulses
• normal urine output

Delayed—

• vasoconstriction
• poor urine output
• mental status change
• hypotension

Question 3

What percentage of blood cultures is positive in patients withbacterial septic shock?

Answer 3

Only ≈50%!

Question 4

What are the associated findings?

Answer 4

Fever, hyperventilation, tachycardia

Question 5

What is the treatment?

Answer 5

1. Volume (IVF)
2. Antibiotics (empiric, then by cultures)
3. Drainage of infection
4. Pressors PRN (SOS)