RECOGNITION AND MANAGEMENT OF PEDIATRIC SEPSIS

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by an overwhelming response to infection. In children, early recognition and intervention are critical to preventing organ dysfunction and death.

Signs of Pediatric Sepsis:

  • Tachycardia: Persistent, unexplained increase in heart rate.
  • Fever or Hypothermia: Temperature instability.
  • Lethargy or Irritability: Changes in mental status.
  • Poor Perfusion: Delayed capillary refill, weak pulses, cool extremities.

Management Strategies:

  • Administer high-flow oxygen to address hypoxemia.
  • Establish vascular access for fluid resuscitation (20 mL/kg boluses of isotonic crystalloids).
  • Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics within 1 hour of recognition.
  • Provide inotropic support (e.g., epinephrine) if perfusion does not improve with fluids.

Early recognition and aggressive management of pediatric sepsis are essential for improving outcomes.