Sepsis (presenting as Acute SOB)

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.