Sepsis screening
Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA)
qSOFA is a bedside tool to identify adult patients with suspected infection who are at greater risk for adverse outcomes. Score 1 point for each positive criterion.
Criterion met if ≥22 breaths/min. Points: 1
Criterion met if ≤100 mmHg. Points: 1
Component results
- Respiratory rate ≥221
- SBP ≤100 mmHg1
- Altered mentation0
Total qSOFA
2
Range 0–3
qSOFA ≥2 identifies patients at higher risk of sepsis-related mortality or prolonged ICU stay. Escalate care and evaluate for organ dysfunction.
qSOFA is a rapid screen; confirm suspected sepsis with full SOFA score or organ dysfunction assessment.
How to Use This Calculator
Screen adults with suspected infection
qSOFA is intended for non-ICU settings. If infection is possible, assess all three criteria.
Confirm vital signs and mental status
Use current measurements. Document confounders (e.g., sedation) that may affect mentation scoring.
Escalate for qSOFA ≥2
Initiate sepsis bundles, obtain labs, and consider ICU consultation. Use SOFA or lactate to confirm organ dysfunction.
Formula
- Respiratory rate ≥22 breaths/min → 1 point
- Systolic blood pressure ≤100 mmHg → 1 point
- Altered mentation (GCS < 15) → 1 point
Total qSOFA score = sum of positive criteria (0–3).
Full Description
qSOFA was introduced in the Sepsis-3 guidelines as a simple bedside score to flag patients likely to have poor outcomes from sepsis. Compared with SIRS, qSOFA emphasizes hypotension, tachypnea, and altered mentation—markers associated with mortality.
qSOFA does not diagnose sepsis. It complements clinical judgement and should prompt evaluation for organ dysfunction (SOFA score), serum lactate, and timely sepsis treatment bundles. Performance varies by setting; some studies favor NEWS2 or other scores for early warning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is qSOFA valid in the ICU?
It was designed for non-ICU environments. In the ICU, use the full SOFA score to assess organ dysfunction.
What defines altered mentation?
Any GCS <15. If GCS cannot be measured, use clinical judgement (confusion, disorientation, decreased alertness).
Does oxygen supplementation affect respiratory rate criterion?
No. Use actual respiratory rate regardless of oxygen delivery. Consider adding other early warning metrics if available.
Should qSOFA replace SIRS?
Not necessarily. Many institutions use qSOFA alongside SIRS or NEWS2. Follow your sepsis protocol and clinical judgement.