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TL;DR

Sepsis: Life-threatening organ dysfunction from infection. qSOFA: altered mental status, RR≥22, SBP≤100.

By Valenke Exam Prep Team·Last updated 2026-06-02

Sepsis

NREMT PARAMEDIC

Definition

Life-threatening organ dysfunction from infection. qSOFA: altered mental status, RR≥22, SBP≤100.

Patient Communication

Communication about sepsis in the prehospital setting includes: explaining procedures to the patient in simple terms, obtaining informed consent when possible (implied consent for unresponsive patients), providing a calm and reassuring presence, and delivering a structured handoff report (SBAR: Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) to the receiving facility.

Regulatory Context

Regulatory context for sepsis includes federal and state requirements. Healthcare facilities must comply with CMS Conditions of Participation, state licensure requirements, and accreditation standards (Joint Commission or AAAHC). Non-compliance can result in citations, fines, or loss of Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement.

Historical Context

The modern EMS system in the United States traces to the 1966 "Accidental Death and Disability" white paper (NAS/NRC). Understanding of sepsis has advanced significantly with evidence-based protocols. The NREMT, founded in 1970, standardized certification levels. Current ACLS and PALS guidelines are updated every 5 years by the AHA based on the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) evidence review.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Protocol steps for sepsis:

Sepsis recognition: qSOFA of 2 or more (altered mentation, RR 22+, SBP 100 or less) then IV fluids 20 mL/kg then early antibiotics if ALS

Overview

Life-threatening organ dysfunction from infection. qSOFA: altered mental status, RR≥22, SBP≤100. Sepsis recognition and treatment priorities tested on Paramedic exam.

In prehospital assessment, GCS reference range: adult 15 is normal, under 8 = severe TBI, pediatric modified pediatric GCS for preverbal. Deviations from these norms guide treatment decisions in the field.

Calculation Methods

Dosage calculations related to sepsis in EMS:

Pediatric dosing: always calculate by weight (mg/kg). Use Broselow tape if weight is unknown.

Why It Matters

Sepsis recognition and treatment priorities tested on Paramedic exam.

Related Terms

Shock (Hypoperfusion)Vital SignsIV and IO AccessInfection Control

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Frequently Asked Questions

What assessment tools help evaluate sepsis?▼
For sepsis: Cincinnati Stroke Scale: evaluates Facial droop, Arm drift, Speech abnormality; scoring is Any 1 positive = 72% probability of stroke. OPQRST: evaluates Onset, Provocation, Quality, Radiation, Severity, Time; scoring is Pain assessment mnemonic.
What protocol applies to sepsis in prehospital care?▼
For sepsis: RSI sequence: preoxygenation then sedation (etomidate 0.3mg/kg or ketamine 2mg/kg) then paralytic (succinylcholine 1.5mg/kg or rocuronium 1mg/kg) then intubation then confirm placement with waveform capnography
What medications are commonly associated with sepsis?▼
For sepsis: midazolam: 2-5mg IV/IM, 0.2mg/kg IN, route IV, IM, IN, for Seizures, sedation. naloxone: 0.4-2mg IV/IM/IN, titrate to respirations, route IV, IM, IN, for Opioid overdose.