Question

A 67-year-old with fever, hypotension, suspected pneumonia, and lactate 4.2 mmol/L meets criteria for septic shock. What is the most time-critical therapy?

Accepted Answer

Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics within 1 hour of recognition

Answer

Draw blood cultures and delay antibiotics if unstable

Answer

Start low-dose dopamine for renal protection

Answer

Administer sodium bicarbonate for lactic acidosis

Answer

Obtain CT chest before antibiotics

Practice question

A 67-year-old with fever, hypotension, suspected pneumonia, and lactate 4.2 mmol/L meets criteria for septic shock. What is the most time-critical therapy?