American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

What does the SOFA score predict in patients?

1. The length of hospital stay

2. Likely mortality in sepsis

3. A patient’s nutritional needs

4. Health insurance coverage

The correct answer is: Likely mortality in sepsis

The SOFA score, which stands for Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, is primarily used to evaluate organ dysfunction and to predict the likelihood of mortality in patients, particularly those with sepsis. This scoring system assesses the function of six organ systems: respiratory, cardiovascular, hepatic, coagulation, renal, and neurological. By assigning points based on the level of dysfunction, healthcare providers can gain insight into the severity of a patient’s condition and their risk for mortality. When it comes to managing patients with sepsis, understanding the potential mortality risk is crucial for making informed decisions regarding treatment plans and interventions. The higher the SOFA score, the more severe the organ dysfunction, and consequently, the greater the likelihood of increased mortality. Therefore, the SOFA score is an essential tool in critical care settings, allowing healthcare professionals to identify severely ill patients and the urgency of medical intervention needed. The other options, while related to clinical practice, do not align with the primary function of the SOFA score. The score does not provide any specific information about the length of hospital stays, a patient's nutritional needs, or health insurance coverage. Its core purpose remains firmly centered on assessing organ failure and predicting mortality, particularly in septic patients.