Raising Awareness for Pediatric Sepsis

Raising Awareness for Pediatric Sepsis
04.26.2024

Pediatric Sepsis Week (April 21-27) is an annual observance to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis in children as it is the leading cause of death of young children and babies worldwide. In the U.S., 75,000 children develop sepsis each year (i.e., 200 children/day).

Signs of sepsis in a child are different than in an adult and include:
  • Feels abnormally cold to touch
  • Looks mottled, bluish, or has very pale skin
  • Has a rash that does not fade when pressed
  • Is breathing very fast
  • Has a convulsion
  • Is very lethargic or difficult to wake
Additionally, for a child <5 years who:
  • Is not drinking or feeding
  • Is vomiting repeatedly
  • Has not urinated in 12 hours

Provider guidance from Jacques Burgess, MD, MHC Service Line Medical Director – Pediatrics: Sepsis in the pediatric patient can be sneaky and elusive. As true pediatric sepsis is low volume high risk, we must remain vigilant and maintain a Questioning Attitude with each child’s presenting symptoms. Consistently ask, “Could this be sepsis or why is this not sepsis?”

While the symptoms of sepsis in a child may differ from an adult, treatment is the same and must be initiated as soon as possible. It is vital to Recognize, Respond, and Reassess to quickly save a life.

Educational resources: