Adults with sepsis or septic shock who carry a high risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) as the causative organism require a distinct empiric antimicrobial approach — one that standard broad-spectrum regimens may not adequately address.
This protocol is indicated for patients presenting with sepsis or septic shock in whom there is a recognised high likelihood of MRSA involvement. In this population, the choice of empiric antimicrobial coverage is not interchangeable — the guideline makes a specific directional recommendation based on the MRSA risk profile.
Current evidence-based guidance recommends selecting empiric antimicrobials that provide active coverage against MRSA — rather than relying on regimens that omit it. The specific agents, decision criteria, and full treatment pathway are detailed in the structured protocol.
For adults with sepsis or septic shock at high risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), we recommend using empiric antimicrobials with MRSA coverage over using antimicrobials without MRSA coverage.