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Septicemia - Treatment

Alternative Names

Blood poisoning; Bacteremia with sepsis

Treatment:

Septicemia is a serious condition that requires a hospital stay. You may be admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU).

Fluids and medicines are given by an IV to maintain the blood pressure.

Oxygen will be given. Antibiotics are used to treat the infection.

Plasma or other blood products may be given to correct any clotting abnormalities.

Expectations (prognosis):

Septic shock has a high death rate, exceeding 50%, depending on the type of organism involved. The organism involved and how quickly the patient is hospitalized will determine the outcome.

Complications:

Septicemia can rapidly lead to adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), septic shock, and death.

Septicemia associated with meningococci can lead to shock, adrenal collapse, and Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome.

Calling your health care provider:

Septicemia is not common but is devastating. Early recognition may prevent progression to shock.

Seek immediate care if:

  • A person has a fever, shaking chills, and looks acutely ill
  • There are signs of bleeding into the skin
  • Any person who has been ill has changes in mental status

Call your health care provider if your child is not current on vaccinations.

  • Reviewed last on: 7/25/2007
  • Kenneth M. Wener, MD, Department of Infectious Diseases. Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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