Paediatric Sepsis

Question 1

How is a child diagnosed with sepsis?

Answer 1

At least 2 of:

• High/Low Temp
• High Heart rate
• High Breathing Rate
• High/Low WCCAND

Suspected/Proven infection

Question 2

What is conditions for Severe Sepsis diagnosis?

Answer 2

Sepsis + Organ dysfunction (CVS or Resp or 2 more other organs)

Question 3

How is paediatric sepsis managed?

Answer 3

0-5 mins…Decreased mental status and perfusion: High
flow O2
5-15 mins…..Give Glucose
Give Calcium
Begin antibiotics

15 mins…Peripheral Inotropes: Cold shock + Adrenaline
Warm shock + Noradrenaline

60+ mins … Advance monitoring

Question 4

What are risk factors for sepsis suspicion?

Answer 4

Lower threshold…

• Age<1yrs
• impaired immunity
• recent trauma/surgery/skin breach
• indwelling lines/catheters/devices

Question 5

What does the NICE Sepsis ABCDE stand for?

Answer 5

Appearance 
Breathing 
Circulation
Demeanour 
Exposure

Question 6

What compound measured in the blood is a useful marker for cardiovascular insufficiency?

Answer 6

Lactate

Question 7

Would you rule out sepsis if a child didn’t have a raised temperature but you suspected it?

Answer 7

No, raised temperature is NOT required criteria. Treatment is based on suspicion.

Question 8

What is the Paediatric Sepsis 6?

Answer 8

Give high flow oxygen 
Obtain IV/IO access + take blood tests
Give IV or IO antibiotics 
Consider fluid resuscitation (lactate)
Involve senior clinicians/specialists early
Consider inotropic support early

Question 9

What antibiotics are given for Sepsis management?

Answer 9

Age < 1 month

• Gentamycin
• Amoxicillin
• CefoTAXime

Age 1-3 months

• Amoxicillin
• CefTRIAXone

Age > 3 months
-CefTRIAXone