Sepsis: A Systematic Review of Antibiotic Resistance and Antimicrobial Therapies

Abstract

Sepsis is a medical emergency that depicts the body’s systemic immune reaction to an infectious process that could result in organ dysfunction and death. Early sepsis pathogen identification and early delivery of antimicrobial therapy result in better clinical outcomes for patients diagnosed with sepsis and septic shock. Method: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses that discussed sepsis pathogen identification, antibiotic resistance and timing in the treatment of sepsis were taken into account irrespective of the approach of the included studies, quantitative or qualitative. This literature review gathers data from twelve primary studies to perform a systematic review and evaluate existing empirical antibiotic therapies in order to treat the various degrees of sepsis and minimize antibiotic resistance. The remaining reviews, case studies, etc., were used as supplementary references. The studies compiled data from laboratory tests including lactate levels, fluid resuscitation, and diagnostic diagnostics like the SOFA score. Results: This paper identifies multiple factors that must be taken into account when treating individuals with sepsis. Prior to the administration of broad-spectrum empiric antibiotics, the severity and morbidity of the disease must be addressed. Excessive antibiotic usage has been associated with increased sepsis hospitalized mortality rates, and thus it is crucial to minimize antibiotic misuse in non-septic patients. This can be accomplished by differentiating between Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, the purpose of biomarkers and identifying the antibiotic resistance pathway. Many patients from low economic statuses may experience difficulties accessing healthcare services and resources for sepsis treatment when diagnosed with sepsis. Additionally, through educational efforts, promoting awareness of sepsis and the relevance of timing in sepsis therapy can help dispel misconceptions about the illness and minimize sepsis patients from receiving insufficient care.