🧬 Sepsis Decision Tree

🎯 Purpose

Structured logic for identifying sepsis vs infection vs SIRS.

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🧩 Step 1: Identify Infection

• Fever or hypothermia
• Tachycardia
• Tachypnea
• Elevated WBC or bands

If NO → Not sepsis
If YES → Continue

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🧩 Step 2: Organ Dysfunction

• Lactate > 2
• Hypotension
• Altered mental status
• Creatinine rise
• Low platelets
• Bilirubin elevation

If NO → Infection without sepsis
If YES → Sepsis

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🧩 Step 3: Septic Shock

• Lactate ≥ 4 OR
• Requires vasopressors

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🧠 Documentation Tips

• Link clinical indicators to diagnosis
• Avoid diagnosing sepsis without organ dysfunction
• Capture source of infection

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🔗 Cross‑Links

• Query Templates
• Audit Checklists