Pediatric septic shock: recognition and management in the emergency department.

Abstract

Sepsis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children. Early recognition and timely initiation of empiric broadspectrum antibiotics and crystalloid fluid administration have been associated with better outcomes. Although evidence for diagnosis and treatment of septic shock was first generated in adult studies, it is clear that pediatric studies are needed for management of septic shock in children. This issue provides guidance for managing septic shock in children, with a focus on early recognition and appropriate resuscitation.