- Prompt initiation of treatment in severe infections is critical to rapidly control the infectious process and prevent progression to sepsis or septic shock.
- Early antimicrobial therapy significantly reduces microbial load, limits tissue damage, and decreases mortality.
- Delayed treatment allows the infection to advance, resulting in poorer clinical outcomes and increased risk of complications.
- The timely use of appropriate antimicrobials is thus essential to improve patient prognosis and survival in serious infections.

Reference: Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 23rd Edition, Chapter: Infectious Diseases, Page 567.