Sepsis Unmasked: From Cells to Sirens (6.23.2025)-Ped slide deck

Ped slide deck

Pdf Summary

The document provides an educational overview of pediatric sepsis, focusing on its assessment, recognition, and intervention. The authors, including Terry Cuellar and several clinical educators from SSM Health, outline learning objectives aimed at improving outcomes in pediatric sepsis cases. These goals include understanding clinical features of sepsis and related conditions, the importance of early recognition and treatment, and effective triage and intervention strategies.<br /><br />Sepsis is a severe, potentially life-threatening condition triggered by the body’s response to an infection. In adults, it has a high mortality rate and is a leading cause of death in non-cardiac ICUs. The document describes Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) as a precursor to sepsis, triggered by non-specific body insults like trauma and infections. Pediatric sepsis progresses from SIRS to sepsis, severe sepsis, and finally septic shock, with various physiological criteria defining each stage.<br /><br />Pediatric patients often present in a state of compensated, or "warm," septic shock rather than decompensated shock. Early detection and treatment are crucial, with goals including maintaining airway, breathing, circulation, and administering treatment like fluids and antibiotics quickly to improve survival rates.<br /><br />The text emphasizes the importance of timely intervention, noting that prompt fluid resuscitation and administration of antibiotics are critical. There's also guidance on vascular access techniques and considerations for treating pediatric shock, including specific medications and dosages.<br /><br />For optimal treatment of pediatric sepsis, the document advocates for thorough assessment using specific criteria and tools, such as the Broselow Pediatric Emergency Tape and Pediatric Assessment Triangle. Additionally, educational initiatives and collaborative efforts, like the Pediatric Surviving Sepsis Campaign, are highlighted as vital for advancing clinical practice in managing pediatric sepsis.

Keywords

pediatric sepsis

assessment

recognition

intervention

Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

septic shock

fluid resuscitation

antibiotics

Pediatric Surviving Sepsis Campaign

Broselow Pediatric Emergency Tape