SEPSIS Flashcards
(5 cards)
Explain the pathophysiology of sepsis, including the normal immune response to infection and how this can lead to organ dysfunction. What are the clinical signs and symptoms associated with sepsis?
Sepsis arises when the body’s immune response to infection becomes dysregulated, leading to tissue injury and organ dysfunction. The normal immune response includes inflammation, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain, which aims to localize and eliminate pathogens. However, in sepsis, this response can become excessive, causing widespread inflammation and damage. Clinical signs of sepsis include fever, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, confusion, and low blood pressure. If untreated, sepsis can progress to septic shock, significantly increasing mortality risk.
Define sepsis and its subsets, particularly septic shock. How does the classification of bacteria contribute to the understanding of sepsis triggers and the body’s response?
Sepsis is defined as a life-threatening condition resulting from the body’s extreme response to an infection, leading to organ dysfunction. Septic shock is a severe subset of sepsis characterized by profound circulatory, cellular, and metabolic abnormalities, which greatly increase mortality risk. Understanding the classification of bacteria, such as gram-positive and gram-negative, is crucial as it informs the treatment approach. Gram-negative bacteria, for instance, often release lipopolysaccharides that trigger a strong inflammatory response, contributing to the severity of sepsis.
How do the Sepsis Six bundle and NICE guidelines direct the management of sepsis in clinical settings? What are the key components of these guidelines that healthcare professionals must follow?
The Sepsis Six bundle and NICE guidelines provide a structured approach to the early management of sepsis, aiming to improve patient outcomes. The Sepsis Six includes administering high-flow oxygen, taking blood cultures, giving IV antibiotics, starting IV fluids, checking lactate levels, and monitoring urine output. NICE guidelines emphasize early identification based on risk factors, administering broad-spectrum IV antibiotics within one hour, and using the NEWS2 scoring system for monitoring. These guidelines ensure timely intervention and escalation of care for patients showing signs of deterioration.
Discuss the nursing care considerations for patients diagnosed with sepsis. What key interventions should nurses implement to monitor and support these patients effectively?
Nursing care for patients with sepsis involves several critical interventions to ensure effective monitoring and support. Nurses should regularly assess vital signs, utilizing the NEWS2 scoring system to detect any deterioration. Fluid resuscitation is essential, with IV crystalloids administered to manage hypotension. Antibiotics should be given within one hour, and blood cultures taken beforehand. Monitoring for organ function, such as kidney performance and neurological status, is crucial. Additionally, providing psychosocial support to patients and families, along with education on sepsis recovery, is vital for holistic care.
