What is the primary goal of source control in an abdominal sepsis scenario?

• A. Drain all fluids
• B. Eliminate the nidus of infection and control contamination
• C. Start antibiotics
• D. Remove all organs

Answer: (B)

In abdominal sepsis, the aim is to stop the ongoing source of infection and prevent further contamination. The best approach is to eliminate the nidus of infection and control contamination, which means removing or repairing the source of infection (such as resecting necrotic or perforated tissue, closing leaks, or draining purulent collections) so that no ongoing contamination keeps fueling the septic process. Antibiotics are important, but without addressing the source, the infection will persist. Draining fluids is part of managing the situation, but it’s a means to achieve source control, not the sole end. Removing organs is not a goal; the focus is on eradicating the infection’s source and containing contamination.