Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
sepsis workup
Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation to detect bacterial infection in newborns with suspected sepsis.
Full Definition
A sepsis workup in neonates typically includes blood culture, complete blood count with differential, C-reactive protein, and may include cerebrospinal fluid analysis via lumbar puncture and urine culture depending on clinical presentation and age. The evaluation is prompted by clinical signs such as temperature instability, feeding intolerance, lethargy, or respiratory distress. Results guide antibiotic therapy decisions and duration of treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Use as compound term. Specify which components were included in the workup.
In Context
- "A complete sepsis workup was performed due to maternal chorioamnionitis and fetal tachycardia." — admission note
- "The sepsis workup revealed an elevated white blood cell count but negative blood cultures at 48 hours." — laboratory report
Also known as
sepsis evaluation
infection workup
Don't confuse with
rule out sepsis
sepsis screen