Sepsis Unmasked: From Cells to Sirens (6.23.2025)-Slide Deck

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Pdf Summary

The document, authored by Rebecca Tracy DO, discusses the significance of sepsis management in the pre-hospital setting, focusing on its impact, identification, and management. Sepsis affects approximately 30 million people globally each year, leading to significant mortality rates, including 1.7 million adult hospitalizations in the U.S. annually. Mortality rates for sepsis range from 25-30%, escalating to 50-85% for septic shock. EMS plays a crucial role in early recognition, which can reduce mortality rates by 18%.<br /><br />Sepsis involves organ dysfunction resulting from a dysregulated immune response to infection. Its early identification by EMS can improve patient outcomes. Factors indicating severe sepsis include elevated lactic acid levels, altered mental status, hypotension, clotting disorders, and organ failure symptoms.<br /><br />Current pre-hospital practices focus on sepsis identification using scoring tools like the PRESEP Score and involve actions like fluid resuscitation and early transport to hospitals equipped for sepsis care. However, only one-third of sepsis cases are correctly identified pre-hospital, necessitating improved training and procedures.<br /><br />The document highlights various studies on the effectiveness of EMS in sepsis management. While early antibiotic administration by EMS has potential, current data do not support routine use outside hospitals. The PHANTASi trial found no significant survival benefit from administering antibiotics during pre-hospital care. <br /><br />Overall, the document underscores the importance of early sepsis recognition and management by EMS but calls for caution and more research before standardizing prehospital antibiotic use. The need for improved training and awareness is emphasized to ensure comprehensive early sepsis care.

Keywords

sepsis management

pre-hospital care

Rebecca Tracy DO

EMS role

mortality rates

septic shock

early recognition

PRESEP Score

fluid resuscitation

PHANTASi trial