For the dyspneic patient in extremis, suspect Sepsis if:
- Febrile
- Low B/P, Rapid Pulse, poor capillary refill = Septic shock
- Clear Lungs [? focal rales if due to Pneumonia]
- Petechiae / Ecchymoses suggest Meningococcemia
Stabilizing Measures:
- Call 911. Give O2.
- FLUIDS (Normal Saline wide-bore IV)
- If diffuse petichiae / ecchymoses (meningococcemia):
- Draw blood cultures, then Ceftriaxone 1 gm IM or IV.
See posting Acute Dyspnea – 1.