(^164) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
PROGNOSIS
Prognosis depends on the general state of the patient, on the type of bacteria, how
quickly a definitive diagnosis is made, and the originating source(s) of the bac-
teremia. Mortality rates vary from 40 to 80 percent.
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Nausea and vomiting from the source of the infection
- Temperature over 101°F due to infection
- Hypotension due to fluid displacement, vasodilation
- Tachycardia from fever and infection
- Tachypnea from fever and infection
- Lactic acidosis results from poor oxygenation
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- WBC 15,000 to 30,000—indicates infection.
- Decreased platelet count—blood coagulopathies are common in shock.
- Abnormal PT and PTT—blood coagulopathies.
TREATMENT
Treatment results depends on the individual. Varying responses are due to the vari-
able immune and inflammatory responses of each patient and their comorbidities.
Treatment depends on identifying the organism, the source of the bacteremia, the
appropriate antibiotic, and maintaining normal vital signs.- Antibiotic specific for the type of bacteria present.
- Fluid resuscitation.
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Decreased cardiac output
- Deficient fluid volume
- Skin integrity