Diagnosis and management of potential bacterial sepsis in an infant

Abstract

This article provides guidance on the assessment, diagnosis and management of sepsis in an infant. The particular considerations when consulting with the parents of a sick infant and the resources available to support paediatric assessment are demonstrated. The challenges of differentiating between a viral or bacterial pathology are presented with consideration of both the safety and wellbeing of the infant, and the principles of antimicrobial stewardship.