CLINICAL PROFILE AND OUTCOMES OF SEPTIC SHOCK IN CHILDREN ADMITTED TO A TERTIARY CARE REFERRAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background: Paediatric septic shock is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing countries. Clinical and biochemical abnormalities contribute to poor outcomes in critically ill children. Objectives of this study were to evaluate demographic characteristics, clinical profile, biochemical parameters and outcomes of children with septic shock and compare clinical and laboratory parameters between survivors and non-survivors. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary care hospital over six months. A total of 325 children aged 2 months to 12 years with septic shock were included through non-probability consecutive sampling. Clinical, haematological, biochemical and blood culture data were analyzed using SPSS-25. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors independently associated with mortality, and p≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the patients was 6.38±3.51 years, 51.4% were males. Elevated liver enzymes, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, and abnormal leukocyte counts were present in 83.7%, 60.9%, 54.2%, and 52.6% of patients, respectively. Overall mortality was 63.7%. Non-survivors had significantly lower haemoglobin, platelet counts, urine output, and systolic blood pressure, but higher leukocyte counts, ALT, AST, heart rate, respiratory rate, and capillary refill time (p<0.05). On multivariable analysis, altered mental status remained independently associated with mortality (aOR 1.67, 95% CI 1.01–2.77, p=0.046). Conclusion: Paediatric septic shock is associated with high mortality and significant clinical and biochemical abnormalities. These parameters may help identify children at increased risk of poor outcomes.

Pak J Physiol 2026;22(3):138–41, DOI: https://doi.org/10.69656/pjp.v22i3.1977