The evaluation of sepsis begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with sepsis may include:

• High fever
• Low blood pressure
• Difficulty breathing:
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid pulse
• Rash:
• Looks like broken blood vessels in the skin
• Confusion
• Coma

Tests are necessary to make the diagnosis of sepsis.

Tests that may be used to evaluate sepsis include:

• Complete blood count
• Kidney profile
• Coagulation profile
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
• Blood cultures
• Chest x-ray
• Urinalysis
• Urine cultures