Spesis Protocol Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is sepsis?
Life-threatening organ dysfunction due to an abnormal response to infection.
What clinical signs raise suspicion for sepsis?
Fever/hypothermia, hypotension, tachycardia, tachypnea, altered mental status, or signs of infection.
What should you do when you suspect sepsis?
Activate the sepsis protocol and notify the provider immediately.
What is the goal timeframe to complete the sepsis bundle?
Within 1 hour of sepsis recognition.
What is the first step in the 1-hour sepsis bundle?
Measure lactate level to assess tissue perfusion.
What should you do if the lactate is ≥ 2 mmol/L?
Re-check lactate within a few hours to monitor for worsening hypoperfusion.
When should blood cultures be obtained in sepsis?
Before giving antibiotics, ideally from two sites.
When should broad-spectrum antibiotics be administered in sepsis?
Within 1 hour of recognizing sepsis.
How much fluid should be given for sepsis-induced hypotension or lactate ≥ 4?
30 mL/kg IV crystalloids (usually NS or LR).
What should be done if hypotension persists after fluids?
Start vasopressors (e.g., Levophed) to maintain MAP ≥ 65 mmHg.
What labs should be drawn during a Code Sepsis?
Lactate, CBC, BMP, PT/INR, blood cultures, type & screen, possibly procalcitonin.
What vital signs and outputs should be closely monitored in sepsis?
Blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, urine output, oxygen saturation, and mental status.
What IV access is needed for Code Sepsis?
At least one large-bore IV (preferably two).
What tools help identify possible sepsis in the ER?
qSOFA (SBP ≤ 100, RR ≥ 22, altered mental status) or SIRS criteria.
Why is early recognition and treatment of sepsis important?
Early intervention significantly reduces mortality and improves patient outcomes.
