A 55-year-old male presents to the ED with fever, altered mental status, and hypotension (BP 80/40 mmHg). Labs show lactate 4.5 mmol/L. After establishing IV access and sending blood cultures, what is the most appropriate immediate next step in management?

Question

BrainForge Quiz · Accepted Answer

C) Initiate intravenous fluid resuscitation with 30 mL/kg crystalloid. Immediate crystalloid fluid resuscitation (30 mL/kg) is critical within the first hour for patients with septic shock and hypotension, after blood cultures are obtained, to improve perfusion and blood pressure. Vasopressors are typically added if hypotension persists despite adequate fluid resuscitation.

A 55-year-old male presents to the ED with fever, altered mental status, and hypotension (BP 80/40 mmHg). Labs show lactate 4.5 mmol/L. After establishing IV access and sending blood cultures, what is the most appropriate immediate next step in management?

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Related USMLE Exam Prep Questions