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What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient with suspected sepsis?
Asked on Feb 15, 2026
Answer
When a patient is suspected of having sepsis, the priority nursing intervention is to initiate a rapid assessment and ensure timely administration of antibiotics and fluid resuscitation. This involves recognizing signs of systemic infection and hemodynamic instability to prevent progression to septic shock.
Example Nursing Steps:
- Step 1 – Perform a thorough assessment including vital signs, focusing on temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure to identify signs of sepsis.
- Step 2 – Administer prescribed broad-spectrum antibiotics and initiate fluid resuscitation as per the sepsis protocol.
- 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 intervention are crucial.
- Use the "Sepsis Six" bundle as a guideline for initial management.
- Prioritize ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) and consider potential sources of infection.
- Communicate findings and interventions promptly to the healthcare team.
- Document all assessments, interventions, and patient responses accurately.
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