The incidence and outcome of septic shock patients in the absence of early-goal directed therapy

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of the present study was to measure the incidence and outcome of septic patients presenting at the emergency department (ED) with criteria for early goal-directed therapy (EGDT). Method: This hospital-based, retrospective, observational study using prospectively collected electronic databases was based in a teaching hospital in Melbourne, Australia. We conducted outcome-blinded electronic screening of patients with infection admitted via the ED from 1 January 2000 to 30 June 2003. We obtained data on demographics, laboratory and clinical features on admission. We used paper records to confirm electronic identification of candidates for EGDT and to study their treatm..