Study of Risk Factors and Prognosis in Patients with Septic Shock admitted to Damascus National Hospital, Cross-Sectional Study

Background Septic shock, the most severe complication of sepsis, is a life-threatening condition characterized by profound circulatory, cellular, and metabolic dysfunction. It carries a high mortality rate worldwide, particularly in resource-limited settings where delayed diagnosis, inadequate antimicrobial stewardship, and limited critical care infrastructure exacerbate outcomes. In Syria, the ongoing socioeconomic crisis has severely impacted healthcare delivery, with rising infectious disease burdens, antibiotic resistance, and suboptimal management of sepsis. Purpose This study aims to identify the key risk factors, infection sources, and mortality predictors of septic shock among patients admitted to Damascus National Hospital, providing critical insights into ist epidemiology and outcomes in a crisis-affected population. Methods The study was conducted on 99 patients diagnosed with septic shock and admitted to Damascus National Hospital between April 1, 2023, and April 1, 2024. A comprehensive medical history was obtained from each patient to identify potential risk factors for septic shock. A multi-system clinical examination was performed, Laboratory investigations were requested, including complete blood count (CBC), blood glucose, creatinine, liver enzymes, urinalysis, blood cultures and cultures from suspected infection sites along with medical imaging to identify the source of septic shock or related complications. Patients were monitored for one month to assess prognosis. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-26 with a p-value > 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results Septic shock was more common in females than males, with increased risk in advanced age (> 50 years). The most frequently observed risk factors were advanced age (> 50), diabetes mellitus, and poor patient compliance with treatment in our society. The risk of septic shock significantly increased with a higher number of risk factors per patient. Pulmonary infections were the most common source of infection leading to septic shock. Mortality occurred in the majority of patients (93.93%), indicating a poor prognosis. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that septic shock is a serious complication in our society, primarily associated with post-infectious mortality. Regardless of risk factors, the survival rate does not exceed 3%, attributed to antibiotic misuse, rising antibiotic resistance, and inadequate medical services and healthcare** due to the country’s deteriorating economic conditions.