1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you spot any of the most common symptoms of sepsis, a life-threatening bacterial infection, you should seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms include, fever, delirium and confusion, chills, warm skin, hypothermia (loss of body heat), skin rash, shaking, rapid heart beat and decreased urine output. The first step in treating sepsis is admission into a hospital's intensive care unit (ICU), since sepsis can be so deadly.
2. Start a Regimen of Antibiotics
Intensive antibiotic therapy is the first step to successfully treating sepsis. In the ICU, you will begin your treatment with broad spectrum intravenous antibiotic therapy to reduce the bacteria count in your bloodstream as rapidly as possible. Care must be taken to monitor the area in which the IV has been inserted, since sepsis can cause an immediate infection in any area where the surface of the skin has been broken.
3. Begin the Blood Tests and Cultures
While you are receiving the first intensive round of antibiotics, doctors will start taking blood tests and cultures to diagnose sepsis. Your white blood cell count will be analyzed to note any rapid increases or decreases, and tests will be administered to detect any reduction in blood platelets. Blood cultures will be used to identify specifically the bacteria that causes sepsis.
4. Treat the Source of the Infection
Sepsis usually occurs as the result of an infection or abscess. Your body must receive a thorough examination to find the source of the infection. Any sores or abscesses will need to be cleaned and sterilized immediately. If the infection is internal, surgery may be required.
5. Receive Supportive Therapy to Treat Sepsis
While waiting for the antibiotics to stop the infection, you may receive other types of therapy to help you recover. You may receive additional oxygen to assist with the healing process, and you will be given a constant flow of liquids through your IV as well. Additional medication may be prescribed to relieve pain and promote healing. Damage to kidney function may result in dialysis treatment as well.
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