Analyses of closed malpractice claims have revealed significant morbidity, mortality, and verdicts associated with the misdiagnosis of sepsis and a delay or failure in treating it. This course reviews evidence-based approaches to improve the rate of sepsis diagnosis and summarizes current guidelines and resources to help practicing physicians evaluate and treat patients with sepsis. Case studies are used to illustrate common sepsis mimics, treatment risks and benefits, and disparities in care. Expert audio commentaries from a practicing emergency department physician and a medical malpractice defense attorney provide insightful strategies that physicians can use to improve patient outcomes and the defensibility of the medical care provided.
