Systemic consequences include Sepsis (previously referred to as systemic inflammatory response syndrome) Septic shock Etiology of Bacteremia Bacteremia has many possible causes, including Catheterization of an infected lower urinary tract Surgical treatment of an abscess or infected wound Colonization of indwelling devices, especially IV and intracardiac catheters, urethral catheters, and ostomy devices and tubes Gram-negative bacteremia secondary to infection usually originates in the genitourinary or gastrointestinal tract or in the skin of patients with decubitus ulcers.