SIRS, Sepsis, Septic Shock & MODS – Comprehensive Study Guide

These flashcards cover the key definitions, pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnostics, treatment protocols, and complications associated with SIRS, sepsis, septic shock, and MODS to aid in exam preparation.

SIRS

Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome; defined by ≥2 of the following: temp >38C or

Sepsis

A life-threatening condition caused by infection + organ dysfunction, indicated by altered mentation, lactate >2, or hypotension.

Septic Shock

A severe consequence of sepsis characterized by persistent hypotension (MAP <65) after fluid resuscitation and need for vasopressors.

MODS

Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome; involves failure of two or more organs resulting from uncontrolled shock and hypoperfusion.

Cytokine Storm

An overreaction of the immune system wherein inflammatory cytokines are released excessively, leading to vasodilation and capillary leak.

Compensatory Shock Stage

The initial stage of shock where the body maintains heart and brain perfusion, often showing only mild symptoms.

Progressive Shock Stage

The stage of shock characterized by decreased cardiac output, hypotension, and potential organ injuries.

Refractory Shock Stage

The final stage of shock featuring severe hypoxia, hypotension, and poor prognosis.

qSOFA

Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment; a screening tool for sepsis, positive if RR ≥22, SBP ≤100, or altered mentation.

SOFA

Sequential Organ Failure Assessment; evaluates various organ systems (respiratory, coagulation, liver, cardiovascular, CNS, renal) for sepsis.

Normal Lactate Levels

Typically normal lactate levels are

Antibiotic Timing for Sepsis

Antibiotics should be administered within 1 hour for septic shock and within 3 hours for sepsis.

First-line Pressor in Sepsis

Norepinephrine is the first-line vasopressor for managing septic shock.

Nutrition in Sepsis

Early enteral feeding is crucial as patients often require 1.5–2 times their normal caloric intake due to hypermetabolic state.

Reporting Red Flags

Clinical signs to report immediately include MAP <65, rising lactate, altered mental status, and urine output <0.5mL/kg/hr.

Expected Outcomes after Sepsis Management

Goals include achieving MAP ≥65, decreasing lactate, improved mental status, stable oxygenation, and adequate urine output.

PICS (Post-ICU Syndrome)

A set of cognitive, physical, and mental health issues experienced by up to 80% of ICU survivors, requiring multidisciplinary support.

Comparison of SIRS, Sepsis, Septic Shock, MODS

SIRS involves inflammation; Sepsis combines SIRS with infection and dysfunction; Septic Shock is severe sepsis with persistent hypotension; MODS results from uncontrolled shock.