Metabolic Cluster Analysis in Septic Shock Patients

Who May Qualify: \- Septic shock patients within the first 24 hours of ICU admission, and selected by the attending physician for performing a fluid challenge (FC) due to suspected tissue hypoperfusion (elevated lactate and/or ScvO2 \< 70%). Who Should NOT Join This Trial: - Age under 18 years old - Uncontrolled hemodynamic instability, defined as the need for significant changes in vasopressor support (\> 10% from baseline dose) within the 15-minute period prior to, and/or during the administration of fluids. - Patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapies, since the CO values obtained from the thermodilution techniques might be potentially affected. Always talk to your doctor about whether this trial is right for you.