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Questions and Answers
According to the provided context, which of these scenarios would cause tachycardia?
According to the provided context, which of these scenarios would cause tachycardia?
In the context of the provided information, which receptor type is primarily responsible for causing vasodilation in arteries?
In the context of the provided information, which receptor type is primarily responsible for causing vasodilation in arteries?
The blood gas results provided indicate which of the following conditions?
The blood gas results provided indicate which of the following conditions?
According to the provided context, which receptor type is responsible for increasing the force of contraction in the heart?
According to the provided context, which receptor type is responsible for increasing the force of contraction in the heart?
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Based on the provided chart, what effect does sympathetic stimulation have on the bronchial muscles in the lungs?
Based on the provided chart, what effect does sympathetic stimulation have on the bronchial muscles in the lungs?
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What is the primary trigger for the chain of physiological reactions in sepsis?
What is the primary trigger for the chain of physiological reactions in sepsis?
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In sepsis, the immune response is best described as which of the following?
In sepsis, the immune response is best described as which of the following?
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Excessive presence of which cells is a key element of the hyperactive immune response in sepsis?
Excessive presence of which cells is a key element of the hyperactive immune response in sepsis?
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Capillary dilation and increased permeability in sepsis directly lead to which condition?
Capillary dilation and increased permeability in sepsis directly lead to which condition?
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What is the consequence of reduced blood flow to organs and tissues in sepsis?
What is the consequence of reduced blood flow to organs and tissues in sepsis?
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What does DIC, a complication of sepsis, stand for?
What does DIC, a complication of sepsis, stand for?
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The buildup of lactic acid in sepsis leads to which condition?
The buildup of lactic acid in sepsis leads to which condition?
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What is the ultimate outcome of the progression of sepsis if it is not resolved?
What is the ultimate outcome of the progression of sepsis if it is not resolved?
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Study Notes
Sepsis Overview
- Sepsis is a life-threatening condition arising from an existing infection.
- It triggers a chain reaction of physiological changes throughout the body.
Pathophysiology Steps
- Infection triggers an immune response, leading to excessive leukocyte (white blood cell) activity.
- This overactive response becomes systemic, instead of localized.
- Capillaries dilate and become more permeable, leaking fluid.
- This reduces intravascular volume, impacting organ perfusion.
- Clotting cascade is abnormally activated leading to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
- Reduced oxygen availability and anaerobic metabolism.
- Lactic acid accumulation causes metabolic acidosis.
- Cell death and multi-organ failure result.
Reduced Blood Volume
- Intravascular volume decreases.
- It is critical that there is enough volume to maintain tissue perfusion.
Clotting Cascade
- In cases of significant volume loss (haemorrhage), the extrinsic pathway gets activated – creating abnormal clotting conditions
- Excessive clotting and blockages arise, restricting oxygen supply to organs.
Oxygen and Metabolism
- Oxygen (O2) is needed for cells to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
- Without adequate oxygen, cells switch to anaerobic metabolism, produces lactic acid resulting in metabolic acidosis, increasing the risk for cell death.
Sepsis and Organs
- Organ perfusion is compromised due to the lack of fluid.
- With diminished oxygen supply, tissues and cells start dying, leading to complete organ failure.
Sympathetic Stimulation
- Adrenaline release in response to significant volume loss or reduced pressure triggers vasoconstriction and an increase in heart rate.
Blood Gas Analysis
- Blood gas analysis can show low oxygen and high lactate levels, indicative of metabolic issues.
- Decreased pH indicates the presence of acidosis.
Red Flag Criteria for Sepsis
- Marked decrease in blood pressure compared to baseline, rapid heart rate, more than expected breaths per minute and altered consciousness.
Sepsis 6 Criteria
- Crucial oxygen loss and DIC are noted
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics are required initially.
- Fluid replacement is necessary
- Monitoring lactate levels is essential
Shock Types
- Hypovolemic shock: results from excessive fluid loss.
- Cardiogenic shock: caused by heart failure.
- Distributive shock: due to widespread blood vessel dilation.
- Obstructive shock: caused by a physical obstruction to blood flow.
- Dissociative shock: results from problems with red blood cells.
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Description
This quiz covers the critical aspects of sepsis, including its causes, pathophysiological steps, and consequences. Explore how an infection leads to severe physiological changes, including reduced blood volume and abnormal clotting. Test your understanding of this life-threatening condition and the biological mechanisms involved.