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What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient with suspected sepsis?
Asked on Mar 06, 2026
Answer
In a patient with suspected sepsis, the priority nursing intervention is to ensure rapid assessment and initiation of treatment to prevent progression to severe sepsis or septic shock. This involves early recognition of symptoms and timely communication with the healthcare team to initiate sepsis protocols.
Example Nursing Steps:
- Step 1 – Conduct a thorough assessment, including vital signs, to identify signs of systemic infection (e.g., fever, tachycardia, hypotension).
- Step 2 – Initiate sepsis protocols, which may include obtaining blood cultures and administering broad-spectrum antibiotics as per orders.
- Step 3 – Monitor the patient's response to treatment, reassess vital signs frequently, and document all findings and interventions.
Additional Comment:
- Sepsis is a medical emergency; early recognition and treatment are critical to improving patient outcomes.
- Use the "Sepsis Six" approach: oxygen, blood cultures, IV antibiotics, fluid resuscitation, lactate measurement, and urine output monitoring.
- Communicate promptly with the healthcare team using SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) to ensure timely intervention.
- Remember the ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) when assessing and prioritizing care.
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