Assessment of Risk Factors of Septicemia

Abstract

Septicemia, commonly referred to as blood poisoning, is a potentially life-threatening medical condition caused by the presence of harmful bacteria in the bloodstream. Objective: To assess risk factors of septicemia and observe correlation between them. Methods: This study is cross-sectional, descriptive, and observational. From the medical wards and Accident & Emergency Department of Mayo Hospital Lahore, 101 patients with septicemia were removed. Data was entered into a Performa created specifically for this use. Results: 15/32 patients of UTI, 11/18 patients of bed sores, 6/13 patients having chest infection, 4/8 patients having wound infection, 4/6 patients of hepatic encephalopathy and 3/6 patients of CVA were diabetic. Correlation at two levels was seen i.e., 0.05 which is an indicative of significant correlation and 0.01 which indicates highly significant correlation. Conclusions: Understanding the risk factors associated with septicemia is crucial for preventing and managing this condition. Age, male sex, diabetes, smoking, hypertension, and immunocompromised status have all been identified as significant risk factors for septicemia. Improving early life conditions, increasing vitamin D intake, and improving nutritional status may also play a role in reducing the risk of septicemia.