septic screen in neonates

Last reviewed 08/2022

A sepsis screen is performed in neonates under any circumstances sepsis is being considered. It is important to be able to justify not performing any part of the screen; an incomplete screen is rarely indicated. The following would be considered the minimum for a sepsis screen in most units:

  • full blood count
  • urea and electrolytes, with glucose estimation
  • blood culture
  • chest radiology
  • lumbar puncture
  • bag urine or suprapubic aspirate of urine