Nursing Care for an Elderly Patient with Septic Shock Secondary to Urinary Tract Infection, Escherichia coli Septicemia, and Hypokalemia: A Case Study

Abstract

Sepsis and septic shock are critical medical emergencies. Especially in the elderly patients with multiple comorbidities. Urinary tract infection is a significant  source of sepsis and septic shock. Rapid clinical assessment, fluid resuscitation, timely administration of antimicrobial agents, and close monitoring of organ function are essential components of treatment. The study aimed to examine the nursing care of an elderly patient with septic shock secondary to a urinary tract infection, Escherichia coli septicemia, and hypokalemia. A case study design was employed, with the patient's clinical findings compared with evidence-based literature and the findings applied to nursing practice.

An 87-year-old Thai woman with comorbidities including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and asthma was admitted with fever, fatigue, and severe sepsis and was subsequently diagnosed with septic shock.  She received intravenous fluid resuscitation, antibiotics, vasopressors, supplemental oxygen, and close monitoring of vital signs, blood glucose, and electrolyte levels. Blood and urine cultures grew Escherichia coli, confirming a urinary tract infection with bloodstream infection. Hypokalemia during treatment was appropriately corrected.The patient's condition improved, and she was discharged home.

nursing care for an elderly patient with septic shock requires rapid assessment and close hemodynamic monitoring.  Timely administration of antimicrobials according to the treatment plan, follow-up of culture results, and systematic prevention of complications related to comorbidities and electrolyte imbalances are essential for patient safety and recovery.