Causes of Bloodstream Infection
A patient develops a bloodstream infection when a type of pathogenic bacteria enters the bloodstream. Some of the common causes of such infections include:
- Failure to regularly change surgical dressings.
- Development of pneumonia.
- Exposure of open wounds to external contaminants.
- Abdominal infections.
- Insect bites from infected organisms.
- Infections related to various types of catheters, such as chemotherapy or dialysis catheters.
- Contamination of covered wounds with bacteria during the recovery phase following surgery.
- Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
- Kidney infections or urinary tract infections.
- Tooth extractions or dental infections.
- Skin infections.
Understanding Bloodstream Infection
Bloodstream infection is characterized as a life-threatening physiological dysfunction arising from an unregulated response to infection. New criteria can be utilized for diagnosing a bloodstream infection without the need for blood tests. The presence of two out of three of the following criteria indicates a significant likelihood of infection:
- A systolic blood pressure drop to 100 mmHg or lower.
- An increased respiratory rate, exceeding 22 breaths per minute.
- Changes in the patient’s mental state.
Symptoms of Bloodstream Infection
The symptoms of a bloodstream infection often resemble those of the flu and may include:
- Rapid breathing.
- Sudden onset of fever.
- Chills.
- General fatigue, particularly common in children.
- Irritability and agitation.
- Shortness of breath.
- Profuse sweating.
- Increased heart rate.
- Confusion and disorientation.
- Severe pain or discomfort.
Risk Factors for Bloodstream Infection
Certain individuals face a higher risk of developing a bloodstream infection due to specific factors, including:
- Staying in an intensive care unit.
- Compromised immune system.
- Suffering from severe injuries.
- Experiencing significant burns.
- Using specific medical devices, such as respiratory tubes or intravenous catheters.
- Having pre-existing medical conditions.
- Age, as both children and the elderly are more susceptible to bloodstream infections.