OVERVIEW

Updates and Controversies in the Early Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock is organized by EB Medicine.

Date of Original Release: October 01, 2018
Date of most recent review: September 10, 2018
Termination Date: October 01, 2021
CME Expiration Date: September 30, 2021

Target Audience:
This enduring online CME material is produced for emergency medicine physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and residents.

CME Credits:
4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, 4 ACEP Category I Credits, 4 AAFP Prescribed Credits, 4 AOA Category 2-A or 2-B Credits.

Description:
For patients in the ED who are suspected of having sepsis, swift, efficient management is necessary to enhance outcomes. This online CME edition reviews the newest evidence on the diagnosis and treatment of sepsis and septic shock:
• How do the definitions of sepsis affect treatment decisions – and CMS quality measurements?
• Is SOFA scoring in the ED possible? Is quickSOFA scoring helpful?
• How can you recognize the origin of the infection?
• What are the lactate clearance, ScvO2, and mean arterial pressure values that you must measure and monitor?
• What techniques of fluid assessment should be used?
• Which vasopressor is the first-line choice? Antibiotics?
• Is there a role for imaging in sepsis?
• Who needs to go to the ICU and who can be discharged?

Objectives:
At the conclusion of this online CME article, you should be able to:
• Explain potential methods for early sepsis identification in a patient presenting with signs and symptoms of infection.
• Note the components of the sequential (sepsis-related) organ failure assessment score and its utility in clinical practice.
• Give specific recommendations for early management of severe sepsis and septic shock.
• Describe the implications of national quality metrics for sepsis care.