Introduction

Pediatric sepsis is a significant healthcare issue that can lead to devastating consequences if not managed promptly and effectively. Sepsis is one of the leading causes of mortality in children, resulting in over 75,000 pediatric deaths worldwide each year. As clinical experts in pharmacotherapy, pharmacists play a critical role in the interprofessional team caring for septic pediatric patients. This subtopic will provide an in-depth review of pediatric sepsis, including the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and detailed pharmacologic management strategies. Key guidelines and evidence will be presented to inform clinical decision making. Scenarios and exam tips are also included to reinforce learning. Recent advancements like sepsis biomarkers and quality improvement initiatives will be discussed. The critical nature of early recognition and time-sensitive interventions make pediatric sepsis a crucial area for pharmacy expertise.