
RCP Medicine Podcast Episode 81: Sepsis
Apr 8, 2025
Dive into the complexities of patient deterioration in acute settings, focusing on a revealing case study of a 69-year-old man. Explore the significance of the NEWS2 score in balancing clinical judgment with patient assessment. Discover a systematic approach to evaluating and treating suspected sepsis using the ABCDE method. Gain insights into the vital role of blood gas analysis in management decisions. Finally, learn about navigating patient referrals to intensive care and the importance of effective communication among healthcare teams.
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NEWS2 Score and Clinical Judgment
- Use NEWS2 scores to assess patient deterioration, considering clinical judgment alongside.
- Look at baseline figures and score trends to evaluate treatment effectiveness.
ABCDE Approach in Critical Care
- Follow the ABCDE approach for assessing and treating critically ill patients.
- Address each problem systematically, treating sepsis and stabilizing vital signs.
Interpreting CO2 Levels
- A normalish CO2 level can be reassuring in a patient with pneumonia, but a raised CO2 could indicate impending respiratory failure.
- Consider the patient's respiratory rate and history when interpreting blood gas results.
