What is the primary focus of the CMS SEP-1 core measure related to patients with septic shock?

The primary focus of the CMS SEP-1 core measure related to patients with septic shock is the timing of obtaining blood cultures before the administration of antibiotics. This measure emphasizes the importance of diagnosing the causative organism of sepsis by collecting cultures prior to starting antibiotic therapy. Obtaining blood cultures first allows for the identification of specific pathogens and guides the selection of appropriate antibiotics, which is crucial in managing sepsis and improving patient outcomes.

The standard of care dictates that this step should occur expeditiously to minimize the impact of delayed treatment. By ensuring that the blood cultures are performed prior to antibiotics, healthcare providers can gather vital information that may direct tailored therapy, thereby enhancing the likelihood of clinical improvement and survival in septic shock cases. This aspect of the measure underscores the need to balance timely antibiotic treatment with effective diagnostic procedures in emergency medicine.