sepsisbundle

Sepsis bundle, or sepsis care bundle, is a structured set of evidence-based interventions for the early recognition and treatment of sepsis and septic shock. Bundles are designed to be completed within a defined time window to improve survival. The concept originated in critical care quality improvement and was popularized by the Surviving Sepsis Campaign, which publishes guidelines detailing components and time targets.

Common components include rapid assessment and monitoring (such as initial lactate measurement), obtaining blood cultures before antibiotics when feasible, timely administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and early intravenous fluid resuscitation for patients with hypotension or elevated lactate. If hypotension persists, vasopressors are added to maintain mean arterial pressure of at least 65 mmHg. Additional elements may cover source control, reassessment of perfusion, and repeat lactate testing. Specifics vary by guideline and setting.

Time targets have varied: 1-hour, 3-hour, and 6-hour bundles have been described, though modern practice emphasizes rapid, appropriate treatment rather than rigid timing. Some guidelines have revised targets to balance prompt therapy with avoiding antibiotic overuse, and hospitals commonly implement bundles as electronic order sets within health systems.

Sepsis bundles function as quality-improvement tools in many health systems but have drawn criticism for potential overtreatment. They should be applied with clinical judgement and local protocols, with ongoing monitoring of outcomes and adjustments as more evidence becomes available.