Application of the qSOFA score to predict mortality in patients with suspected infection in a resource-limited setting in Malawi

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the predictive value of qSOFA (quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) in Malawian patients with suspected infection. Methods: Prospective observational study in a tertiary referral hospital in Malawi. Results: Predictive ability of qSOFA was reasonable [AUROC 0.73 (95% CI 0.68–0.78)], increasing to 0.77 (95% CI 0.72–0.82) when classifying all patients with altered mental status as high risk. Adding HIV status as a variable to the qSOFA score did not improve predictive value. Conclusion: qSOFA is a simple tool that can aid risk stratification in resource-limited settings.