Sepsis Recognition & Management Bundles

Sepsis is a life-threatening response to infection causing organ dysfunction, and early recognition — before frank hypotension develops — is the single highest-yield sepsis concept on the exam. Screening tools flag concerning combinations such as altered mental status, a respiratory rate over 22, and a systolic blood pressure at or below 100 mmHg; a rising heart rate and respiratory rate together, even with a still-"normal" blood pressure, represent an early, compensated warning pattern that should not be dismissed as reassuring.