Septic shock is defined as hypotension persisting after how much fluid resuscitation?

• A. 1L
• B. 2L
• C. 3L
• D. 4L

Answer: (B)

Septic shock is diagnosed when hypotension persists after an adequate fluid challenge, with the goal of restoring perfusion before starting vasopressors. The typical fluid amount used for this initial resuscitation is about 30 mL/kg of crystalloid within the first 3 hours. For a typical adult, that roughly equals 2 liters. If blood pressure remains low after this fluid bolus, vasopressors are started to maintain a mean arterial pressure of at least 65 mmHg. So, the threshold you’re being tested on is about 2 liters of fluids before concluding that persistent hypotension requires vasopressor support. Smaller amounts (like 1 liter) are usually insufficient, while larger totals (3–4 liters) exceed the defined point at which you’d reassess the need for vasopressors.