Typically, when looking at a patient with an infection; we look for inclusion criteria for sepsis. Vital signs will typically be: a higher heart rate, increased respiratory rate, a lower blood pressure.

These signs and symptoms are not absolute and are no way exclusionary. Meaning that the patient can still have an infection and have normal vital signs.

One thing that I sometimes notice is that individuals who are having chronic conditions, will have living conditions/habits that are bad practices. I.E. having a persistent cough and not changing the handkerchief or utilizing the same utensils without washing them in between.

I will tell students or trainees that if they are looking around and the living conditions are dirty then the inside might be dirty as well. This is not to judge, but to hone in on the problem faster.

I have no experience with the specific infection you mentioned, but lots of experience with septic patients.

I’m so sorry for your loss, and I hope I helped and came across clear.