Sepsis and MODS Flashcards

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) is best defined as:

Answer: Progressive dysfunction of two or more organ systems requiring intervention to maintain homeostasis

MODS involves altered function of two or more organ systems requiring support.

Which organ system is typically the first to fail in the progression of MODS?

Answer: Pulmonary (lungs)

The lungs are often the first organ to fail, frequently presenting as ARDS.

Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury is most directly indicated by which finding?

Answer: Rising creatinine with decreased urine output

AKI is marked by rising creatinine and oliguria reflecting reduced renal function.

Which coagulation abnormality is a hallmark of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in severe sepsis?

Answer: Simultaneous bleeding and microvascular thrombosis

DIC produces both clotting and bleeding due to consumption of clotting factors.

In sepsis-induced hepatic dysfunction, which laboratory finding is commonly seen?

Answer: Rising bilirubin and transaminases

Hepatic dysfunction raises bilirubin and liver enzymes and prolongs the INR.

The underlying pathophysiology that drives MODS in sepsis is primarily:

Answer: Dysregulated systemic inflammation and microcirculatory failure

Uncontrolled inflammation and impaired microcirculation cause widespread organ injury.

Which scoring tool quantifies the degree of organ dysfunction across six systems in critically ill sepsis patients?

Answer: SOFA score

The SOFA score grades dysfunction across six organ systems to track severity.