A 55-year-old male patient with suspected septic shock is being prepared for aeromedical transport. Despite fluid resuscitation, his blood pressure remains low. What is the most appropriate next step in management to stabilize this patient for transport?
Increase the rate of IV fluids
Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics
Give a corticosteroid dose
Administer norepinephrine
Administering vasopressors such as norepinephrine is the most appropriate next step when fluid resuscitation does not adequately increase blood pressure in septic shock. Vasopressors help to constrict blood vessels and increase systemic vascular resistance, thereby improving blood pressure and perfusion. While antibiotics are crucial in treating the underlying infection, they do not provide immediate stabilization of blood pressure. Corticosteroids may be used in septic shock with adrenal insufficiency but are not the first-line treatment. Blood transfusions are considered if there is significant blood loss or anemia, but not as an immediate response to persistent hypotension in septic shock.
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