Analysis from European Sepsis Survey on The Lancet Highlights Gaps in Blood Culture Practices Across European Hospitals

The European Sepsis Alliance welcomes the publication of a new scientific analysis of data from the European Sepsis Care Survey (ESCS) in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe. The study examines blood culture practices and microbiological diagnostic capacity across more than 900 hospitals in 37 European countries, providing valuable insights into one of the most critical components of timely sepsis diagnosis.

The analysis highlights considerable variation in blood culture collection practices and laboratory infrastructure across Europe. While most hospitals reported having blood culture guidelines in place, adherence to recommended practices was inconsistent. The study also found that access to rapid diagnostic testing and 24/7 microbiology services remains limited in many hospitals, potentially delaying appropriate antimicrobial treatment for patients with sepsis.

These findings build on the European Sepsis Care Survey by providing a detailed assessment of microbiological diagnostic capacity and reinforce the ESA's call for strengthened laboratory infrastructure, standardized diagnostic practices, and improved implementation of evidence-based sepsis care across Europe.

The ESA congratulates the authors and all healthcare professionals who participated in the European Sepsis Care Survey. Their contributions continue to generate important evidence to inform policy and improve sepsis care for patients across Europe.