NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which of the following is a typical consequence of sepsis?

1. Extravagant sweating

2. Increased blood pressure

3. Decreased level of consciousness

4. Improved kidney function

The correct answer is: Decreased level of consciousness

Sepsis is a severe response to infection that can lead to widespread inflammation, impaired blood flow, and organ dysfunction. One typical consequence of sepsis is a decreased level of consciousness, which occurs due to a combination of factors including sepsis-induced delirium and decreased perfusion to the brain. The inflammation caused by the infection can affect the central nervous system, resulting in altered mental status. Patients may exhibit confusion, lethargy, or a significant decline in their ability to respond to stimuli. The other options are not typically associated with the clinical picture of sepsis. For instance, extravagant sweating can occur but is not a primary consequence; it might also be a sign of fever rather than sepsis per se. Increased blood pressure doesn’t align with the usual hemodynamic profile in sepsis, where hypotension is more commonly seen due to vasodilation and fluid loss. Improved kidney function is also unlikely because sepsis often leads to impaired renal perfusion and potential acute kidney injury due to the reduced blood flow and the body's response to the infection. Hence, decreased level of consciousness aligns with the expected complications arising from septic conditions.