Is MRSA the same as septic shock?
What is septic shock?
Septic shock is a life-threatening medical condition requiring immediate medical attention. Septic shock is a potentially lethal drop in blood pressure due to the presence of bacteria in the blood. Septic shock can be caused by any bacterial infection that has invaded the bloodstream. Septic shock causes multiple organ failure and death.
The mortality rate for septic shock is approximately 50 percent with its most common victims -- the elderly, children, and people with compromised immune systems.
Is MRSA the same as septic shock?
No. However, once MRSA bacteria enter the bloodstream, it may cause septic shock. Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bacterial infection caused by staphylococcus aureus bacteria.
Is bacteremia the same as septic shock?
No. Bacteremia happens when microorganisms get into the bloodstream. Never a good sign as bacteremia can develop into septic shock if the microorganisms attack people with compromised immune systems.
Is pneumonia the same as septic shock?
No. Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs most commonly caused by bacteria or virus.
Septic shock is a potential complication of pneumonia. Sepsis occurs when microorganisms enter the bloodstream and the immune system responds by secreting cytokines. Sepsis most often occurs with bacterial pneumonia.
Hospital-acquired microorganisms may include resistant bacteria such as MRSA. Patients already in the hospital have weakened immune systems. Pneumonia acquired in a hospital setting is considered more deadly than community acquired pneumonia.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), septic shock ranks as the 13th cause of death in the United States and the number one cause of death in intensive care units (ICU).
Bacterial infections frequently go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Bacterial infections invade the sick in a hospital setting. Bacterial infections can develop into life threatening events once in the bloodstream.
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