Septic shock is low blood pressure caused by an infection. Sepsis is the most common cause of death in non-cardiac intensive care units, and septic shock is the most severe form of sepsis. Treatment for septic shock includes giving antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and medications to raise the blood pressure (vasopressors).
We would like to see if a protocol-driven management strategy for septic shock can shorten time on vasopressors and limit the number of side effects. We have constructed a protocol that will allow the nurse at the bedside, in conjunction with the physician's orders, to adjust the amount of fluids and medications that raise the blood pressure (vasopressors).
