Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection. It happens when the immune system
overreacts to an infection and starts to damage the body's tissues and organs.
The aim of this research study is to compare the two different ways to treat sepsis, in the
early phase of treatment immediately after the participants arrive in hospital. The standard
approach is to give a salt solution fluid through a drip in the participants arm to start
with, then adding in a medication that increases the blood flow to the participants vital
organs (a vasopressor mediation called norepinephrine) if required. The alternative approach
is to start the vasopressor medication immediately, and then add in extra salt solution fluid
via a drip if required. Vasopressors work by increasing the blood pressure which allows a
better blood flow to the internal organs. The investigators plan to see which approach is
better and to see if they have a role in improving a patient's recovery time, reducing
complications, the length of time they stay in hospital and longer term poor health.
Based on research that has already been done, the investigators believe treating patients
with vasopressors when they arrive in the Emergency Department, may have potential advantages
over the standard fluids used today. However, the evidence is not clear and that is why this
research is being done.
Phase:
Phase 3
Details
Lead Sponsor:
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
Collaborators:
Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust Imperial College London Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust St George's, University of London University of Edinburgh University of Glasgow