Sepsis

Life-threatening organ dysfunction from dysregulated host response to infection

Definition

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition arising from a dysregulated host response to infection, causing organ dysfunction. Septic shock is a subset with profound circulatory and cellular/metabolic abnormalities.

Recognition: qSOFA / SIRS

Altered mental status
Respiratory rate ≥ 22
SBP ≤ 100
Other: fever or hypothermia, tachycardia, leukocytosis/leukopenia, elevated lactate

Hour-1 Sepsis Bundle

Measure lactate; re-measure if initial greater than 2
Obtain blood cultures before antibiotics
Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics
Administer 30 mL/kg crystalloid for hypotension or lactate ≥ 4
Apply vasopressors (norepinephrine) if hypotension persists. Target MAP ≥ 65

Nursing Interventions

Rapid recognition, source control, adequate resuscitation, close monitoring of organ function, prevent complications (ARDS, AKI, DIC). Protect airway.

NCLEX Relevance

Hour-1 sepsis bundle: time-sensitive.