The qSOFA (quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) score is a simplified bedside tool developed to rapidly identify patients at risk of poor outcomes from sepsis outside of intensive care units. It was introduced as part of the Sepsis-3 definitions in 2016 by the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine. Unlike the full SOFA score, which requires laboratory data, qSOFA relies only on clinical signs that can be assessed quickly and without specialized equipment.

The three criteria are: respiratory rate ≥22/min, altered mentation (Glasgow Coma Scale <15), and systolic blood pressure ≤100 mmHg. Each abnormality scores one point, with a maximum score of 3. A qSOFA score of 2 or more is associated with an increased risk of sepsis-related mortality and prolonged ICU stay. The tool serves as a screening instrument to prompt clinicians to investigate further, initiate early resuscitation, and consider escalation of care.

qSOFA is particularly useful in emergency departments, general wards, and pre-hospital settings where rapid decisions are essential. Its simplicity allows non-specialists to recognize deteriorating patients quickly. While not diagnostic of sepsis itself, qSOFA functions as a red flag that additional evaluation with laboratory tests, full SOFA scoring, and microbiological workup is warranted.