Local vs. Systemic Infections
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is a characteristic that differentiates a local infection from a systemic infection?

  • Localized inflammation response. (correct)
  • Elevated urine output.
  • Increased oxygen saturation levels.
  • Presence of tachycardia.

What is the primary difference between local and systemic infection regarding the body's inflammatory response?

  • Local infections limit inflammation to the affected area, stopping when no longer needed, whereas systemic infections involve widespread inflammation. (correct)
  • Inflammation is exclusive to systemic infections and absent in local infections.
  • Local infections cause mild inflammation, whereas systemic infections do not trigger an inflammatory response.
  • Local infections cause a widespread inflammatory response, while systemic infections have a contained response.

A patient presents with a localized skin infection. Which of the following symptoms would indicate that the infection is likely NOT systemic?

  • Decreased oxygen saturation.
  • Elevated fever.
  • Normal urine output. (correct)
  • Rapid heart rate.

What is the primary reason sepsis is considered life-threatening?

<p>It results from a dysregulated response to an infection, leading to cellular, circulatory, and metabolic abnormalities. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following processes is most indicative of an infection progressing from a local to a systemic stage?

<p>The infection escapes local control and the bacteria increases. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of systemic infections, what does the term SIRS (Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) refer to?

<p>A widespread inflammatory response triggered by various infectious or non-infectious insults. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During trauma, how can a systemic infection develop, and what condition is it closely associated with?

<p>Through a dysregulated response, closely associated with sepsis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the difference between sepsis and a systemic infection?

<p>Sepsis is life-threatening and results from a dysregulated response to infection, whereas systemic infection is a broader term that can be infectious or non-infectious in origin. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following physiological responses is directly initiated by the hypothalamus during a stress response?

<p>Stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to norepinephrine release. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During an infection, the body experiences stress. Which hormonal response is primarily regulated by the anterior pituitary in response to this stress?

<p>Release of ACTH, leading to the secretion of catecholamines and glucocorticoids. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, released during the adrenal response to stress?

<p>To increase the availability of glucose and suppress non-essential bodily functions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the qSOFA criteria assist in the initial assessment of a patient who may be developing sepsis?

<p>By using simple bedside assessments to quickly evaluate the likelihood of sepsis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with tachypnea, altered mental status and hypotension. According to the qSOFA criteria, what do these signs indicate?

<p>These indicators suggest the patient may be developing sepsis and require further evaluation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between qSOFA and MEWS (Modified Early Warning Score) in assessing patient condition?

<p>MEWS incorporates all the components of qSOFA, providing a broader assessment of patient status (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient is suspected of having an infection and presents with signs of a stress response, such as tachypnea and altered mental status, which initial set of actions should be prioritized?

<p>Initiating qSOFA assessment to evaluate the likelihood of sepsis and need for further intervention. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a patient with a known adrenal insufficiency who experiences a stressful event such as a severe infection. What is the most critical consideration regarding their stress response?

<p>The patient may be unable to mount an adequate cortisol response, potentially leading to adrenal crisis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the most direct consequence of increased capillary permeability during the progression of a disease?

<p>Edema formation as fluid leaks into the interstitial space. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What physiological change directly contributes to cellular ischemia during the described pathological state?

<p>Vasoconstriction reducing blood vessel diameter and blood flow. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the described condition, which of the following best explains the significance of suppressed fibrinolysis?

<p>It prevents excessive bleeding by promoting clot stability. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason the hypodynamic phase of a disease is often missed?

<p>Its short duration and subtle, easily overlooked manifestations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the described pathological state, what is the combined effect of increased neutrophil aggregation and platelet adhesion to the endothelium?

<p>Microvascular obstruction and impaired tissue perfusion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the most likely outcome of the described 'leaky vascular system'?

<p>Generalized edema (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient's fibrinolysis is suppressed, which of the following is most likely to occur?

<p>Prolonged existence of blood clots (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During hypoperfusion of organs, what is the primary reason for the increase in lactate levels?

<p>Shift to anaerobic cellular metabolism. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does increased vasodilation contribute to hypoperfusion in the described condition?

<p>By reducing overall systemic blood pressure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST direct effect of faster coagulation in the described condition?

<p>Potential for microvascular clotting. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During sepsis, chemical mediators are released from the endothelium. Which of the following is NOT a chemical mediator involved in this process?

<p>Erythropoietin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient in septic shock is receiving fluid resuscitation. The order is to administer 30 mL/kg of crystalloid solution. Which assessment finding would MOST strongly suggest that the fluid resuscitation is improving the patient's condition?

<p>Increased blood pressure and urine output (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which sepsis leads to vasodilation?

<p>Release of chemical mediators from the endothelium (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following physiological responses is a direct consequence of the capillary leak induced by sepsis?

<p>Edema and decreased intravascular volume (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with sepsis develops Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC). Which laboratory finding is MOST indicative of this complication?

<p>Elevated D-dimer (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the progression of sepsis, what directly contributes to impaired gas exchange?

<p>Capillary leak and pulmonary edema (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During sepsis, the activation of the clotting cascade is often followed by a loss of clotting factors. What is the MOST likely consequence of this?

<p>Uncontrolled bleeding (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS) and sepsis?

<p>Sepsis can lead to MODS. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with sepsis is hypotensive despite initial fluid resuscitation. Which intervention should be considered NEXT to improve blood pressure?

<p>Administering a vasopressor medication (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying cause of the immune system failure associated with the progression of sepsis?

<p>Exhaustion of immune cells and dysregulation of the immune response (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are antibiotics typically discontinued within 24 hours after surgery as a secondary preventative measure?

<p>To reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance and <em>C. difficile</em> infections without compromising prophylactic benefits. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following practices represents a secondary prevention strategy for surgical site infections?

<p>Performing sterile dressing changes 48 hours after surgery. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of infection control, what is the primary purpose of adhering to CDC guidelines and universal precautions?

<p>To minimize the risk of pathogen transmission between healthcare workers and patients. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient undergoing surgery develops a fever and elevated white blood cell count 36 hours post-operation. Which of the following should be prioritized, according to secondary prevention strategies?

<p>Performing a sterile dressing change and assessing the surgical site for signs of infection. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of recognizing Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) in the progression of sepsis?

<p>SIRS represents an early stage where interventions can prevent progression to severe sepsis or septic shock. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the presence of both infectious and non-infectious pathologies impact the diagnosis of Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS)?

<p>The presence of either infectious or non-infectious pathologies can independently trigger SIRS, complicating diagnosis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies the application of secondary prevention strategies to manage sepsis progression?

<p>Implementing routine screening for early detection of sepsis in high-risk patients. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with SIRS following a surgical procedure. What immediate steps should be taken to prevent the progression to severe sepsis?

<p>Initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics and monitor vital signs closely. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the MOST accurate description of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign (SSC) guidelines updated in October 2021?

<p>They place a greater emphasis on improving the care of sepsis patients after discharge from the ICU. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the chain of infection, which of the following describes the 'portal of exit'?

<p>The method by which an infectious agent leaves the reservoir. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a normal inflammatory response to a local infection, what physiological change occurs FIRST?

<p>Vasodilation increases blood flow to the site of infection. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the role of cytokines in the body's response to infection?

<p>They mediate and balance pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the normal immune response to infection, why does arteriole dilation occur with small vein constriction?

<p>To increase blood flow to the site, causing swelling and allowing immune cells to access the area. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an accurate description of anti-inflammatory mediators' action during an immune response?

<p>They suppress inflammatory mediators and increase fibrinolysis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has a localized infection on their leg. Which of the following would be the expected sequence of events in the body's normal response to infection?

<p>Vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, tissue repair. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST important implication of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign's updated guidelines regarding post-ICU care?

<p>Addressing long-term outcomes and potential readmissions of sepsis survivors. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is studying a new virus. They need to understand how the virus spreads from an infected person to a healthy individual. Which element of the chain of infection is the researcher MOST concerned with?

<p>Mode of Transmission (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During an infection, pro-inflammatory mediators are released. What physiological effect would you expect to observe due to these mediators?

<p>Increased blood flow to the infected area. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient's body is not effectively controlling a localized infection despite initial inflammatory responses, what might be a potential problem?

<p>Any of the above. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A hospital is trying to reduce the amount of readmissions. Considering the Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines, which strategy would be MOST effective for sepsis patients?

<p>Providing comprehensive discharge planning and follow-up care to address potential complications. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A person accidentally cuts themselves while gardening. What component of the chain of infection does the soil represent in this scenario?

<p>Reservoir (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During an immune response, both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators are at work. What is the purpose of having both types of mediators?

<p>To carefully balance the intensity and duration of the immune response, preventing excessive damage to the body. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with sepsis. Lab results show elevated levels of both IL-1 and IL-10. How should this be interpreted?

<p>The elevated IL-1 suggests a strong pro-inflammatory response, while the elevated IL-10 indicates the body is attempting to regulate the inflammation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Local Inflammation

Inflammation limited to a specific area that stops when no longer needed.

Local Infection Signs

No fever, tachycardia, decreased O2 saturation, and reduced urine output.

Systemic Infection

When an organism invades the bloodstream, escaping local control.

Widespread Inflammation

Inflammation affecting the whole body, often associated with SIRS.

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SIRS

Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, a systemic inflammation reaction.

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Sepsis

A life-threatening condition due to a dysregulated response to infection.

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Sepsis Symptoms

Includes cellular, circulatory, and metabolic abnormalities.

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Noninfectious Systemic Infections

Systemic infections that are not caused by pathogens.

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Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS)

A condition where two or more organ systems fail due to systemic inflammatory response.

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Chemical Mediators

Substances released during the immune response, including histamines and cytokines.

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Histamines

Compounds released during allergic reactions and immune responses causing vasodilation.

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Prostaglandins

Lipid compounds that have diverse hormone-like effects, including inflammation.

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Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels to increase blood flow as part of immune response.

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Capillary Leak

Increased permeability of capillaries leading to fluid loss into tissues.

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Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

A serious condition marked by widespread clotting and bleeding due to sepsis.

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Clotting Cascade

A series of processes leading to the formation of a blood clot during injury.

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Impaired Gas Exchange

Reduced ability of the lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide effectively.

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Stress Response

Physiological changes triggered by stressors affecting the body.

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Hypothalamus Role

The hypothalamus initiates the body's stress response.

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Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system activated during stress.

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Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter released during stress that prepares the body for action.

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Pituitary Gland

Releases ACTH as part of the stress response, influencing adrenal function.

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Glucocorticoids

A class of steroid hormones, including cortisol, released during stress.

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Tachypnea

An increased respiratory rate often seen during stress or infection.

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qSOFA

Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment for identifying sepsis risk.

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Surgical Dressing Change

Change the sterile dressing 24 hours after surgery to prevent infection.

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Secondary Prevention

Actions taken to prevent the progression of a disease, specifically in health care.

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CDC Guidelines

Recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control for health care practices to prevent infection.

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Universal Precautions

Infection control practices that treat all blood and bodily fluids as if they are infectious.

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Antibiotics Before Surgery

Antibiotics administered prior to surgery to reduce infection risk.

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D/C Antibiotics Within 24 Hours

Discontinue antibiotics within 24 hours post-surgery to reduce resistance risk.

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SIRS Definition

Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, characterized by widespread inflammation in response to infection.

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Sepsis Interventions

Timely actions needed during the progression of sepsis to prevent severe outcomes.

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Surviving Sepsis Guidelines

Updated global adult sepsis guidelines by SSC, October 2021.

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Post-ICU Sepsis Care

Emphasis on improving care for sepsis patients post discharge from ICU.

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Geographic Diversity in Guidelines

New guidelines include greater geographic and gender diversity.

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Chain of Infection

Sequence of conditions for infection spread involving pathogens.

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Pathogen Definition

Infectious agent such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

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Reservoir in Infection

People or environments where pathogens live and multiply.

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Portal of Exit

The way pathogens leave the host to spread infection.

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Mode of Transmission

How pathogens spread from one host to another.

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Portal of Entry

How pathogens enter a susceptible host.

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Susceptible Host

An individual who is vulnerable to infection by pathogens.

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Normal Response to Infection

Body's immune response includes local infection and inflammation.

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Three Phases of Inflammation

Includes vasodilation, vessel permeability, and tissue repair.

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Cytokines Role

Mediators that recruit immune cells during infection response.

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Pro-inflammatory Mediators

Substances like IL-1, IL-8, and TNF that promote inflammation.

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Anti-inflammatory Mediators

Substances like IL-6, IL-10 that suppress inflammation.

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Capillary Permeability

The ability of capillaries to allow substances to pass through their walls.

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Neutrophil Aggregation

The clumping together of neutrophils at the site of inflammation or injury.

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Platelet Adhesion

The sticking of platelets to damaged blood vessel walls to form clots.

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Faster Coagulation

An accelerated process of blood clot formation to prevent excessive bleeding.

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Suppressed Fibrinolysis

A decrease in the breakdown of fibrin in clots, leading to clot stability.

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Hypoperfusion of Organs

Inadequate blood flow to organs, leading to insufficient oxygen supply.

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Cellular Ischemia

Reduced blood flow that causes cellular injury or death due to lack of oxygen.

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Lactate Increase

A rise in lactate levels due to anaerobic metabolism when oxygen is scarce.

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Hypodynamic Phase

A phase of limited physiological response that is hard to identify due to subtle signs.

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Study Notes

Sepsis

  • A major worldwide problem, affecting about 50% of adults, sepsis is a severe response to infection. It can cause tissue damage, organ failure, and death if not promptly treated. Septic shock is a subset of sepsis, with a significantly higher risk of death.
  • Over 1.6 million cases occur annually in the U.S., and more people die from sepsis than from breast cancer in a single year.
  • People diagnosed with sepsis have a 75% chance of staying in the hospital.
  • Abdominal sepsis has a high mortality rate, with only 30% survival.
  • Sepsis accounts for 20% of hospital admissions and 50% of U.S. hospital deaths. Recurring hospital readmissions related to sepsis are also common.

Surviving Sepsis Campaign

  • Updated global adult sepsis guidelines were released in October 2021.
  • There's an increased focus on improving sepsis care after patients are discharged from the ICU.
  • The new guidelines reflect a wider representation of geographical and gender diversity compared to previous versions.

Chain of Infection

  • Pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites) are transmitted via air, water, or objects.
  • Reservoirs include people, animals, or the environment.
  • The portal of exit refers to the way pathogens leave the reservoir.
  • Transmission describes the spread of the pathogen from the reservoir to a new host, either through direct contact, indirect contact, or via vectors.
  • The portal of entry describes how pathogens enter a new host.

Body's Response to Infection

  • The body's response to infection is a complex inflammatory response that involves vasodilation, increased vessel permeability that allows the entry of cells into blood vessels, and the movement of antibodies and cells from the blood to the site of infection. Subsequently, the tissue repair itself is initiated.

Immune Response to Infection

  • Arterioles dilate, accompanied by a constriction of small veins.
  • Capillary permeability is increased.
  • Pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-1, IL-8, TNF) are released to attract leukocytes and cytokines.
  • Anti-inflammatory mediators (IL-6, IL-10) suppress inflammatory mediators.

Local Infection

  • Organisms invade the site.
  • Local inflammation response aims to trap and eliminate the pathogen.
  • White blood cells (WBCs) collect at the infection site
  • Cytokines released by WBCs prompt more inflammation and more WBCs to the site
  • Local vasoconstriction and dilation increase perfusion of the site.

Systemic Infection

  • Organs are affected
  • Impaired gas exchange & tissue perfusion.
  • Inflammation, impaired gas exchange, and impaired tissue perfusion.
  • The inflammatory response is detrimental; it becomes excessive in sepsis.
  • This leads to tissue and vascular changes and oxidative stress, further negatively impacting gas exchange and tissue perfusion.

Sepsis Progression

  • Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).
  • Sepsis (two or more SIRS criteria + suspected infection).
  • Severe sepsis (sepsis + end-organ damage).
  • Septic shock (severe sepsis + refractory hypotension).
  • Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).

Pathogenesis of SIRS/MODS

  • Bloodstream infection, trauma, burns, surgery, or pancreatitis initiate SIRS.

Stress Response

  • Stress triggers glucose release, leading to hyperglycemia.
  • Liver releases enzymes to increase chemical reactions, produce bile, and process waste products from food and medication.

Hypoperfusion of Kidneys

  • Reduced urine output.
  • Reduced blood flow to kidneys.
  • Elevated creatinine and BUN.

Hypodynamic Sepsis

  • Mild hypotension.
  • Decreased urine output
  • Low or high-grade fever
  • CO Decrease.
  • Increased Respiratory Rate
  • Other Signs and Symptoms: Impaired Perfusion may lead to: Decreased/Absent Urine Output, ↓BP, S/S of Hypoxia

Hyperdynamic Sepsis

  • Increased systolic Blood Pressure
  • Decreased or Absent Urine output
  • Increased cardiac output
  • Increased heart rate.
  • Low or high-grade fever
  • Warm extremities, no cyanosis.
  • Other Signs and Symptoms: Increased Perfusion may lead to: Increased cardiac output, Elevated BP and HR, Warm, dry skin, ↑ RR, ↓ WBC, Confusion.

Severe Sepsis

  • Tissue Hypoperfusion and Organ Dysfunction
  • Signs and Symptoms: Decreased response to stimuli; taste and smells; Confusion, Disorientation. Increased respiratory rate.
  • Elevated Blood Pressure, Body temperature below or above normal, Decreased urine output, Edema (fluid accumulation in tissues).

DIC—Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

  • A life threatening condition.
  • The excessive clotting (intravascular coagulation) leads to organ damage because of the lack of oxygen getting to the organs, clotting and hemorrhage occur simultaneously throughout the body.
  • Organ dysfunction can result.

Nursing Interventions for DIC

  • Maintaining tissue perfusion.
  • Monitoring vital signs.
  • Bleeding precautions.
  • Administering medication as prescribed.
  • Recognizing the signs and symptoms of DIC and intervening early.

MODS—Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome

  • Altered organ function in an acutely ill patient requiring medical intervention to maintain homeostasis.
  • Patients may not recover normal function, and it is often a result of septic shock.

Sepsis Risk Factors in the Elderly

  • Often have co-morbidities.
  • Immunocompromised
  • Poor bladder emptying and skin breakdown are common.

Sepsis Resuscitation in the Elderly

  • Identify and treat the infection quickly
  • Assess the elderly's mental status.
  • Provide emotional support to the patients.
  • Treat the underlying chronic conditions.

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Description

This quiz covers the characteristics differentiating local and systemic infections, including the inflammatory response and progression. It explores sepsis, SIRS, and the development of systemic infections post-trauma, along with the hypothalamus' role in stress response during infections.

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