Nursing care for patients with septic shock undergoing renal replacement therapy: A case study

Abstract

Severe infections that progress to shock are caused by pathogens entering the body and triggering an immune response, which leads to circulatory dysfunction and hypotension. Therefore, the body requires fluids or medications that stimulate vasoconstriction to prevent life-threatening complications. Bloodstream infections are most commonly caused by severe bacterial pathogens such as Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as fungi and viruses. The body’s immune system responds to these infections by releasing inflammatory mediators that lead to vasodilation, increased vascular permeability and altered microcirculation. This results in hypotension, microvascular occlusion, cellular oxygen deprivation and ultimately, vital organ failure.

The role of critical care nurses is crucial in the management of patients with septic shock. Comprehensive assessment, continuous monitoring and timely interventions during the critical phase are essential to prevent potential complications. Nurses apply the nursing process to the care of patients with septic shock by conducting thorough assessments, establishing nursing diagnoses, planning and implementing nursing interventions and evaluating outcomes in accordance with professional standards to minimize complications. In this case study, the patient developed complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and acute kidney injury (AKI), requiring continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) to support organ function and prevent further organ failure. To enhance the quality of nursing care, this study integrates evidence-based nursing standards with the case analysis through the use of systematic assessment tools and appropriate medical technologies, combined with holistic care, enabling nurses to plan and deliver care with the highest level of effectiveness.