Epidemiology of Pediatric Sepsis in The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Dr. Javid Iqbal, Dr. Zarmast Khan, Dr Noor-ul-ain Mehak, Dr Ayesha Salamat, Dr Mahnoor Javaid, Dr Saleem Ahmed, Khurram Shahzad, Kashif Lodhi
Pharmacology (2024) Volume 109, Issue 2: 189-198

Background: Pediatric sepsis poses very substantial challenge in the realm of pediatric intensive care, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its epidemiology for effective management. This study focuses on investigating the prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes of pediatric sepsis within pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of the tertiary care hospital. Aim: The main aim of our current research is to elucidate epidemiological aspects of pediatric sepsis, involving its incidence, demographic distribution, associated risk factors, and clinical manifestations, with a specific focus on patients admitted to the PICU of the tertiary care hospital. Methods: A retrospective observational research was led, involving a thorough analysis of medical records of pediatric patients admitted to PICU over a specified period. Demographic information, clinical data, laboratory parameters, and outcomes were collected and analyzed to determine the prevalence, etiology, and contributing factors of pediatric sepsis. Results: The study revealed a comprehensive overview of pediatric sepsis within the PICU, highlighting the incidence, age distribution, common pathogens, and associated comorbidities. Analysis of clinical and laboratory parameters provided insights into the severity and progression of sepsis in this specific population. Furthermore, the study explored the impact of various risk factors on results of pediatric sepsis, including mortality rates and length of PICU stay. Conclusion: The results of our current research contribute valuable insights into epidemiology of pediatric sepsis in a tertiary care hospital’s PICU. Understanding occurrence and dangerous aspects of pediatric sepsis is crucial for early recognition, timely intervention, and improved patient outcomes. The study underscores the importance of continued surveillance and research to enhance our understanding of pediatric sepsis and refine clinical management strategies.
Keywords: Pediatric sepsis, Epidemiology, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Tertiary care hospital, Risk factors, Clinical outcomes, Mortality, Retrospective study.