What are the components of the 'Sepsis Six' care bundle?

The Sepsis Six care bundle comprises six components: taking blood cultures, usually two sets from different sites; giving antibiotics within one hour; providing high-flow oxygen; collecting serum lactate and full blood count samples; starting IV fluids; and accurately measuring fluid balance. These actions should begin if any red flag sepsis sign is present.

The Sepsis Six is a widely used care bundle for sepsis treatment. Its six components are: blood cultures, typically two sets from two different sites; administration of antibiotics within one hour; delivery of high-flow oxygen; sampling for serum lactate and full blood count; IV fluid administration; and accurate measurement of fluid balance. Clinical guidance instructs that whenever any red flag sepsis feature is present, the Sepsis Six should be commenced. Healthcare organizations normally have a clinical pathway or recognized care bundle, and local procedures should always be followed.