Concepts
Non-clinical sciences/Pathology · Definitions
SIRS, sepsis & septic shock
What it means
SIRS (≥2 of): T >38 or 90, RR >20, WCC >12 or 2 despite fluids. qSOFA ≥2 of: RR ≥22, altered mentation, SBP ≤100.
Worked example
Infection + new confusion + RR 24 + SBP 98 → qSOFA 3 → high risk; escalate and start the sepsis bundle.
In the exam
A patient with infection has a respiratory rate of 24, systolic BP 96 and new confusion — three adverse criteria flagging high risk.
What settles it
Septic shock specifically needs vasopressors AND lactate >2 after fluids — more than hypotension alone.
Classically confused with
Acute inflammation
Source: Sepsis-3; NICE NG51