Early detection and treatment of severe sepsis in the emergency department: identifying barriers to implementation of a protocol-based approach.

Introduction: Despite evidence to support efficacy of early goal-directed therapy for resuscitation of patients with severe sepsis and septic shock in the emergency department, implementation remains incomplete. To identify and address specific barriers at our institution and maximize benefits of a planned sepsis treatment initiative, a baseline assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding detection and treatment of severe sepsis was performed.

Methods: An online survey was offered to nurses and physicians in the emergency department of a major urban academic medical center.