International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Which symptom is associated with possible sepsis in infants?

1. Flushing

2. Gray or blue skin color

3. Increased activity

4. High appetite

The correct answer is: Gray or blue skin color

The symptom associated with possible sepsis in infants is gray or blue skin color. This change in coloration, known medically as cyanosis, indicates a lack of adequate oxygenation in the body. In infants, such a discrepancy can be alarming, as it reflects a possible systemic infection that may be leading to sepsis. In cases of sepsis, the body is unable to effectively deliver oxygen to the tissues, which can manifest as a bluish or grayish tint to the skin, especially noticeable around the lips, face, and extremities. Skin coloration changes are critical indicators of the infant's physiological state, and timely recognition of such symptoms can be life-saving. It is crucial for caregivers and healthcare providers to monitor not just more commonly recognized symptoms of infection but also these significant changes in skin color. Consequently, gray or blue skin color serves as an urgent flag warranting further medical evaluation and intervention.