Sepsis

Sepsis occurs when a dysregulated host response to infection causes potentially life-threatening organ dysfunction. It is usually caused by bacterial infection and carries a 30% mortality, causing millions of deaths worldwide each year. New definitions have recently been published for clinical practice and research. Effective management requires prompt recognition, antimicrobial therapy, source control and supportive treatment. Early, appropriate antimicrobial therapy is associated with improved survival from sepsis. Rapid identification and control of the source of infection (e.g. drainage of pus) is equally important in many cases. These and other elements of the initial management of sepsis are incorporated into the 'Sepsis Six' bundle of care.