Sepsis

Sepsis is a time-dependent condition defined as life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection (1,2). Currently, one in three affected patients dies as a result of the condition (2).
For this reason, it is essential to recognize and identify its symptoms as early as possible. In most cases, sepsis presents with the typical signs and symptoms of infection, including fever and altered mental status.
To detect sepsis events as early as possible while ensuring an internationally standardized assessment, the most recent guidelines recommend the use of clinical scoring systems, such as quick SOFA (Sequential [Sepsis-related] Organ Failure Assessment) and the MEWS (Modified Early Warning Score) and NEWS (National Early Warning Score) scales (2).
In particular, a SOFA score greater than 2 has been associated with a mortality rate of approximately 10% (1).