Pediatric sepsis remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, necessitating efficient screening tools for early detection. This study addressed the evolving landscape of pediatric sepsis screening strategies, emphasizing the importance of nuanced approaches and technological advancements. With a focus on sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value, this study explored the performance of diverse screening tools and their impact on timely interventions. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, following defined inclusion criteria. Studies involving pediatric populations, sepsis screening, and reporting performance metrics were included. A two-step screening process, quality assessment, and data extraction were undertaken. The synthesis adopted a narrative approach, considering the anticipated heterogeneity in study designs, populations, and screening tools. Diverse screening tools exhibited variable outcomes. The current study findings underscored the complexity of balancing sensitivity and specificity, which is crucial for avoiding false positives and ensuring timely interventions. This study contributed to the ongoing discourse on pediatric sepsis screening by synthesizing evidence from diverse studies. The nuanced nature of pediatric sepsis demands tailored screening tools, and technological integration, which holds promise. Despite challenges and variances in tool performance, this study highlights the essential role of screening in early sepsis detection. Future research should prioritize refining tools, addressing limitations, and exploring novel technologies to enhance precision in pediatric sepsis screening.
Key words: Pediatric sepsis, pediatric emergency, sepsis in pediatrics, Rapid pediatric sepsis screening.
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