Sepsis is a frequent cause of presentation to the emergency department (ED). Early identification and aggressive management in the ED is paramount to improving morbidity and mortality associated with sepsis. As a result, pharmacists in the ED should be familiar with and assist with the optimization of therapy for sepsis in this patient population. This article will discuss the epidemiology and economic impact of sepsis and the definitions, pathophysiology, and clinical presentation of sepsis and its related syndromes. In addition, the authors will discuss the elements related to treatment of sepsis from the Surviving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines that are particularly germane to the management of sepsis in the ED. Direct support such as source control, early broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, hemodynamic assessment, and continuous monitoring are essential. In addition, early aggressive fluid resuscitation with titration of therapy to mixed venous oxygen saturation >70%, tight glycemic control and choice of vasopressors and inotropes have been shown to decrease mortality in sepsis. Mechanical ventilation with low tidal volumes, renal replacement therapies, early enteral nutritional support, and stress ulcer prophylaxis are also important considerations in septic patients. Controversies in therapy such as the utility of drotrecogin α activated, low-dose corticosteroids, and vasopressin are also discussed.
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