How to Test for Sepsis

Everyone is susceptible to bacterial infection to some degree, and the complications may not be serious if the infection is treated. However, sepsis is a condition during which the body cannot fight off such infections. Rather, the bacteria produces toxins that cause the body's immune system to overreact and attack its own tissues and organs. Sepsis can occur at any age, but it is especially prevalent in infants younger than 2 months whose immune systems are not fully developed. This infection can also occur in individuals whose immune systems are inhibited due to HIV infection.

Things You'll Need

• Chest x-ray
• Urinalysis
• Blood test
• Spinal tap

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Instructions

Test for Sepsis

• 1

  Take inventory of any unusual symptoms and report them to the physician conducting the diagnosis.

• 2

  Obtain a blood test and get counts of red and white blood cells. This will reveal any bacteria that are in the blood.

• 3

  Collect urine using a sterile catheter for collection from an infant. The sample will be examined for the presence of bacteria.

• 4

  Test for meningitis by having a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) performed. The decision to perform this test may depend on the patient's age and appearance.

• 5

  Consider getting a chest X-ray. A CT scan is another imaging method used to detect sepsis.

• 6

  Check any tubes running into and out of the person's body. These tubes may be carrying bacterial infection.