Obstetric sepsis: Clinical pearls for diagnosis and management

Abstract

Sepsis is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early recognition and treatment improve outcomes. Multiple sepsis diagnostic screening tools are available and may be used in clinical practice; however, early thorough bedside evaluation of the patient is fundamental. Obstetricians should be able to recognize sepsis and promptly initiate potentially life-saving treatments, such as fluid resuscitation, vasopressors, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and early source control. It is recommended that obstetrical care, including delivery timing, not be altered solely due to the diagnosis of sepsis.

Keywords: Pregnancy; Resuscitation; Screening; Sepsis.