College

A patient diagnosed with a postpartum infection states she does not have any pain but seems confused and agitated. Her vital signs are: T 99.9, BP 98/50, P 125, and urinary output is decreased. The most likely diagnosis is:

a) Sepsis
b) Puerperal fever
c) Postpartum depression
d) Hypovolemic shock

Answer :

Final answer:

The most likely diagnosis for the patient who is postpartum with confusion, agitation, tachycardia, hypotension, fever, and decreased urinary output is puerperal sepsis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. The correct answer is option B .

Explanation:

The patient's symptoms of confusion, agitation, elevated heart rate (tachycardia), hypotension, and decreased urinary output suggest sepsis, which can be a life-threatening response to an infection. Considering the patient's recent childbirth, the most likely diagnosis is puerperal sepsis, a type of sepsis that can result from a bacterial infection during or after childbirth.

Additionally, a temperature of 99.9 degrees Fahrenheit indicates a fever, which is another sign consistent with infection. The criteria for sepsis include a suspected or documented infection and the presence of some of these symptoms: increased heart rate, confusion or altered mental status, fever, and hypotension, which the patient exhibits.