The gastrointestinal system is
vulnerable to septic shock as well. In addition to maintaining adequate tissue
perfusion, preventing gastrointestinal bleeding is important. This can be done
through the administration of histamine type 2 receptor antagonists, proton
pump inhibitors, or sucralfate
(Porth 2005).
Psychological support of the patient and
family is paramount at this time. Answering questions regarding the patient’s
treatment and care and teaching the patient and family about prevention of
recurrence are important to address. The nurse must take into account the
patient’s cultural needs and communication styles when communicating with him
and his family. Reduction of anxiety in the critically ill patient is very
important. The noise and environment of the critical care unit invokes anxiety.
Medications are a contributing factor as well along with equipment such as
ventilators. Also, pain, sleep loss, hypoxia, fear of death, and loss of
control are contributing factors. Speaking with the patient and family about
previous coping styles will be helpful when assisting the patient with anxiety (Chulay & Burns 2006).
The patient must have help in
maintaining his nutritional status. Healing from infection relies on adequate
nutritional support. The patient may need tube feedings or total parenteral
nutrition to meet his nutritional needs. The general recommendations are 25-35
kcal/kg/day for total calorie intake and 1.5-2.0 g protein/kg/day.
Caring for the patient with sepsis is challenging. Care considerations must include all body systems as sepsis affects all areas of the body. The most important element is to treat the underlying cause. With the above treatment options, hopefully our patient can be restored to health quickly.
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