Management of Septic Shock and Sepsis-Associated Organ Dysfunction in Children

1) In children who present as acutely unwell, we suggest implementing systematic screening for timely recognition of septic shock and other sepsis-associated organ dysfunction. (Low, Weak)

2) We were unable to issue a recommendation about using blood lactate values to stratify children with suspected septic shock or other sepsis-associated organ dysfunction into low- versus high-risk of having septic shock or sepsis. However, in our practice, if lactate levels can be rapidly obtained, we often measure blood lactate in children when evaluating for septic shock and other sepsis-associated organ dysfunction. (, )

3) We recommend implementing a protocol/guideline for management of children with septic shock or other sepsis-associated organ dysfunction (BPS). (, )

4) We recommend obtaining blood cultures before initiating antimicrobial therapy in situations where this does not substantially delay antimicrobial administration. (, )