Update of the Post-Splenectomy Vaccination Protocol and Educational Measures in the Prevention of Severe Sepsis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34635/rpc.1142Keywords:
Immunization, Secondary, Postoperative Care, Postoperative Complications, Sepsis/prevention & control, SplenectomyAbstract
Anatomical or functional asplenia is associated with immunodeficiency and a significantly increased risk of life-threatening infections caused by encapsulated bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningitidis. These infections can rapidly progress to overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI), with high mortality. Prevention through vaccination, antibiotic prophylaxis, and patient education is essential to reduce morbidity and mortality in this population. We aimed to update the post-splenectomy vaccination protocol previously published in 2014, incorporating the most recent scientific evidence and national and international recommendations, and to propose an updated version of the “Post-Splenectomy Patient Record Booklet” to standardize clinical practice and strengthen coordination with Primary Health Care.
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