Michael D. Howell, MD, MPH; Andrew M. Davis, MD, MPH

Sepsis results when the body’s response to infection causes life-threatening organ dysfunction. Septic shock is sepsis that results in tissue hypoperfusion, with vasopressor-requiring hypotension and elevated lactate levels.1 Sepsis is a leading cause of death, morbidity, and expense, contributing to one-third to half of deaths of hospitalized patients,2 depending on definitions.3 Management of sepsis is a complicated clinical challenge requiring early recognition and management of infection, hemodynamic issues, and other organ dysfunctions.

JAMA