Septic Shock

How is the condition diagnosed?

The diagnosis is often suspected after a history and physical examination, often in the emergency department. The diagnosis can often be confirmed by drawing a blood sample for a blood culture. If the sample contains bacteria and the person is in shock, septic shock can usually be diagnosed with certainty. In some cases, the blood doesn't seem to have bacteria. A person may still be treated for septic shock in this case based on the history, examination, and other blood and urine tests or X-rays.