Nursing care plan for septic shock

Introduction

Septic shock is a severe illness caused by overwhelming bacterial infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate treatment and appropriate nursing care.

Assessment

The diagnosis of septic shock is made by assessing a patient’s laboratory and vital signs. In septic shock patients, the following observations may be noted:

• Fever — The patient’s temperature may be elevated up to 104°F or higher.
• Fast heart rate — Pulse rate may go as high as 120 beats per minute.
• Low blood pressure — Blood pressure may drop to as low as 90/60 mmHg.
• Pale, cool skin — The skin may become pale and cold due to insufficient blood circulation.
• Confusion — The patient may be disoriented due to lack of oxygen in the bloodstream.

Nursing Diagnosis

Based on the information collected during the assessment phase, the nurse makes a nursing diagnosis and develops a care plan. The most common nursing diagnoses for sepsis include:

1. Risk for impaired tissue integrity related to hypotension, fever, and increased metabolic rate.
2. Risk for infection related to immunosuppression.
3. Deficient fluid volume related to inadequate intake and increased demand.
4. Ineffective protection and coping strategies related to fear, pain, and lack of understanding.
5. Impaired breathing related to decreased oxygen supply.

Outcomes

By the end of the nursing care plan treatment, the nurse has certain expected outcomes. The desired outcomes are achieved when the patient’s condition improves and all their vital signs are stabilized.

Interventions

The interventions that the nurse will use to improve the patient's condition depend on the patient’s status and the severity of their illness.

Rationales

The primary goal of the nursing care plan is to reduce the mortality rate of patients with septic shock. The interventions and strategies used by nurses are effective in preventing the progression of the disease and stabilizing the patient.

Evaluation

The nurse evaluates the patient regularly and tracks their progress. During each evaluation, the nurse examines the patient’s vital signs and laboratory results for indications of improvement.

Conclusion

Septic shock is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Prompt recognition, assessment, and intervention are essential for improving outcomes. Nursing care plans should be individualized to meet the needs of each patient so that the best possible outcomes can be achieved.

FAQs

• What is septic shock? - Septic shock is a severe illness caused by overwhelming bacterial infection.
• How is septic shock diagnosed? - The diagnosis of septic shock is made by assessing a patient’s laboratory and vital signs.
• What are the most common nursing interventions for septic shock? - The interventions that the nurse will use to improve the patient's condition depend on the patient’s status and the severity of their illness.
• What is the goal of the nursing care plan? - The primary goal of the nursing care plan is to reduce the mortality rate of patients with septic shock.
• When should a nurse evaluate the patient's progress? - The nurse evaluates the patient regularly and tracks their progress during each evaluation.