An Overview Of Status Post Splenectomy, Role Of Nursing, Paramedics, Psychologist And Clinical Laboratory Teams

Abstract

People who have had their spleen removed through elective or non-elective splenectomy are at a significant risk of developing serious infections. Overwhelming postsplenectomy infection (OPSI) is a series of events characterized by a fast advance from infection to severe sepsis. Postsplenectomy infection is a critical medical situation that requires immediate attention. It is highly advisable to promptly administer antibiotics upon the initial indication of infection. Typically, in adults, the progression of the disease takes many days but can accelerate within a few hours from the first indication of fever to the development of widespread pneumonia, widespread blood clotting, bleeding and tissue death in the adrenal glands, and tissue death in the kidney tubules. The paramedics play a vital role in evaluating patients with critical conditions before they reach the hospital and implementing effective measures. Similarly, the nursing and clinical laboratory staff have a crucial role in properly managing these cases. Lastly, psychologists play an important role in providing support to patients and their families after a spleenectomy.