What is the first step in the management of a patient with suspected sepsis?

The first step in the management of a patient with suspected sepsis involves administering broad-spectrum antibiotics. This is crucial because sepsis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention to combat high levels of infection and prevent progression to severe sepsis or septic shock. Starting antibiotics within the first hour of recognizing sepsis significantly improves patient outcomes, including reductions in mortality rates.

In the context of sepsis, early identification and treatment are key. While intravenous fluids are also an important part of sepsis management to support blood pressure and organ perfusion, the priority is to control the underlying infection as quickly as possible. Furthermore, performing a thorough history and physical examination is important for diagnosis, but it should not delay the administration of antibiotics. Contacting a specialist can also play a role in sepsis management, especially in complex cases, but immediate antibiotic therapy is paramount. This timely intervention is supported by extensive clinical guidelines, emphasizing the urgency of addressing infection in sepsis cases.