A 64-year-old with suspected sepsis but no shock (MAP 75, lactate 1.8) presents 2 hours after fever onset. When should antibiotics be given?...

Question

A 64-year-old with suspected sepsis but no shock (MAP 75, lactate 1.8) presents 2 hours after fever onset. When should antibiotics be given?

Accepted Answer

Within 3 hours if sepsis without shock; within 1 hour if shock or high likelihood

Answer

Within 1 hour for all suspected sepsis regardless of severity

Answer

Within 6 hours if lactate

Answer

Only after culture results return

Answer

Defer until procalcitonin >0.5 ng/mL

us-abem MCQ (SBA): Sepsis Antibiotic Timing