Learning About Sepsis in Newborns

What is sepsis?

Sepsis is a serious, life-threatening reaction to an infection.

Newborns can get sepsis because their immune systems aren't very strong yet. This makes it hard to fight off some infections, such as group B streptococcus, E. coli, herpes, and pneumococcus.

Your baby's doctor will quickly test for the cause of your baby's infection and then treat it.

Your baby may need special care, such as being in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This may be scary for you. But the hospital staff understands this. They will explain what happens and will answer your questions.

How is it treated?

Sepsis is treated with medicines to fight the infection that led to sepsis. Machines will track your baby's vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, breathing rate, and pulse rate. Your baby will get fluids through a vein (I.V.). Your baby may also get other medicines to help with their blood pressure and pulse.

What can you expect when your baby has sepsis?

Your baby will be kept comfortable and warm.

You may see tubes and wires attached to your baby. These things help the doctor provide treatment. The tubes supply air, fluid, and medicines to your baby.

If your baby has trouble breathing, the doctor may use a ventilator. This machine helps your baby breathe. To use the machine, the doctor puts a soft tube through your baby's mouth into the windpipe.

It's hard to be apart from your baby, especially when you worry about their condition. Working with the NICU staff, you'll find out about your baby's needs and how you can help. When your baby's condition permits, you may also help with breast milk and cuddling.

Friends and family can help give you support. You can also ask the hospital staff about counseling and other support for yourself and other family members, including children.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.