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.