qSOFA Score Calculator (Quick SOFA for Sepsis)

How it works

qSOFA = (RR ≥ 22) + (altered mentation, GCS < 15) + (SBP ≤ 100 mmHg); ≥ 2 = high risk. SIRS: temp > 38 or < 36, HR > 90, RR > 20 or PaCO₂ < 32, WBC > 12 or < 4 (≥ 2 positive)

The 2016 Sepsis-3 definitions replaced SIRS with organ dysfunction (a SOFA rise of 2 or more) as the definition of sepsis, and proposed qSOFA as a quick bedside prompt outside the ICU: two of three simple findings — fast breathing, altered mentation, low blood pressure — identify patients with suspected infection who are likely to have a prolonged ICU stay or die. It is a prognostic flag, not a diagnostic test: qSOFA is specific but insensitive, so a negative score never rules sepsis out, and the Surviving Sepsis Campaign now advises against using it as the sole screening tool. Many hospitals pair it with NEWS2 or SIRS, which are more sensitive, and confirm organ dysfunction with a full SOFA score and lactate.

Worked example

RR 24, GCS 14, SBP 98: qSOFA 3 — positive; with temperature 38.6, HR 112 and WBC 14.5 the patient is also SIRS 4/4. Start the sepsis bundle and calculate SOFA.

Frequently asked questions