Nursing Sepsis Protocol

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition involving an inflammatory response to infection or injury. Its fatal properties can quickly take hold if left untreated. However, by following appropriate protocols, nurses and other health care professionals can recognize the symptoms of sepsis early and treat patients in a timely manner.

Identification

• The first step in the treatment of sepsis is to identify the symptoms. These can include a high fever combined with chills, shaking, tachycardia, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, dizziness, confusion and disorientation. Certain sepsis patients may also exhibit a rash on a confined part of the body, or they may break out in small dark red spots all over.

Early Intervention

• Once the nurse makes the attending physician aware of the symptoms and a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment of the condition begins. Supplemental oxygen is provided if necessary. A venous catheter may be inserted if the patient is not retaining or taking in enough fluids. A blood transfusion is sometimes given to increase oxygen delivery to weakened tissues.

Continued Treatment

• Isolation of sepsis patients is crucial, especially in facilities such as nursing homes, because of the risk of spreading the infection to others whose immune systems may already be compromised. Antibiotics and, at times, steroid therapy, are typically given for one to two weeks to see if the patient improves.