Seconds to Save: Effectiveness of Rapid Sepsis Screening Tools in Emergency Departments

Abstract

Background: Sepsis requires rapid recognition and treatment, yet delays in emergency departments (EDs) remain common.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of qSOFA, NEWS2, and a combined model in predicting sepsis-related mortality.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 3,216 ED patients with suspected infection was conducted across 5 hospitals in China (2021–2023). Mortality within 28 days was the primary outcome.

Results: qSOFA had AUC 0.72, NEWS2 had AUC 0.81, and the combined model improved to AUC 0.88. The combined model showed sensitivity 86.3% and specificity 82.5%.

Conclusion: A combined sepsis screening model outperforms qSOFA and NEWS2 alone. Adoption of integrated screening could improve early recognition and survival in EDs.