The Effect of Esmolol on Clinical Prognosis of Patients With Severe Sepsis

Inclusion Criteria:

• age > 18 years;
• severe sepsis (acute organ dysfunction secondary to infection )diagnosis according to Campaign to Save Septic Patients: 2008 Treatment Guidelines for Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock,
• mechanical ventilation via endotracheal intubation with a tidal volume of 6 mL/kg;
• satisfactory sedation and analgesic treatment, with HR > 100 bpm.

Exclusion Criteria:

• pre-existing cardiac dysfunction, valvular heart disease, high-degree atrioventricular block;
• acute or chronic pulmonary heart disease;
• a history of serious asthma;
• chronic renal insufficiency;
• cancer, autoimmune diseases, or contraindications for placement of deep venous catheter;
• insulin-dependent diabetes.