Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock 2026

Basic Principles and Terminology

The following definitions are used For the purposes of these guidelines:

Definite sepsis: Sepsis is confirmed based on history, clinical examination, and diagnostic testing. An alternative diagnosis is very unlikely.

Possible sepsis: Moderate suspicion for sepsis. Sepsis is a possible diagnosis; however, an alternative diagnosis is also likely based on history, clinical examination, and diagnostic testing.

Probable sepsis: High suspicion for sepsis. Sepsis is the most likely diagnosis based on history, clinical examination, and diagnostic testing. An alternative diagnosis is less likely.

Probiotics: are live microorganisms—usually beneficial bacteria and yeasts—that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.

Sepsis: life-threatening acute organ dysfunction due to infection.

Septic Shock: a subset of patients with circulatory dysfunction that confers a higher risk of mortality.

Unlikely sepsis: Low suspicion for sepsis. Clinical assessment is not consistent with sepsis, or an alternate diagnosis is more likely based on history, clinical examination, and diagnostic testing.