Sepsis and septic shock: current approaches to management

Area of Science:

• Critical care medicine
• Infectious diseases
• Public health

Background:

• Sepsis is a global health priority with high mortality and long-term dysfunction in survivors.
• Effective pharmacological treatments for sepsis are lacking, emphasizing early recognition and intervention.
• Community-acquired sepsis constitutes 70-80% of cases, highlighting the role of emergency and primary care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current knowledge on sepsis and septic shock epidemiology.
• To provide recommendations for the optimal management of sepsis and septic shock in adults.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature.
• Synthesis of data from multicenter randomized trials, including NHMRC-funded Australian trials.
• Analysis of epidemiological data and clinical management strategies.

Main Results:

• Sepsis survival rates are improving globally due to screening and quality improvement programs.
• Early recognition, resuscitation, and antibiotic treatment are key to reducing sepsis burden.
• Survivors of sepsis often experience significant, under-treated long-term physical, cognitive, and psychological deficits.

Conclusions:

• Reducing the burden of sepsis requires a comprehensive healthcare system approach beyond acute episode management.
• Optimizing sepsis management involves early identification, prompt resuscitation, and appropriate antibiotic therapy.
• Continued research and implementation of evidence-based practices are essential for improving sepsis outcomes.