A patient with suspected sepsis without shock has unclear infectious source. What timing of antimicrobials is recommended?...

Question

A patient with suspected sepsis without shock has unclear infectious source. What timing of antimicrobials is recommended?

Accepted Answer

Rapid assessment; if high likelihood of sepsis or septic shock, administer antimicrobials immediately (ideally within 1 hour)

Answer

Only after cultures result

Answer

Within 6 hours of triage regardless of severity

Answer

Within 1 hour only if lactate ≥2 mmol/L

Answer

Wait for CT imaging, then start empiric therapy

us-abem MCQ (SBA): Sepsis Antimicrobial Timing