Embodiments may include an automated method for evaluating a sepsis status associated with a blood sample obtained from an individual. Methods may include determining a standard deviation of monocyte volume associated with the blood sample. Methods may include determining a white blood cell count (WBC) associated with the blood sample. Methods may include evaluating, using a data processing module, the sepsis status associated with the blood sample. The data processing module may include a processor and a computer application. This computer application may cause the processor to compare the standard deviation of monocyte volume with a first cutoff value to provide a comparison. The computer application may cause the processor to compare the WBC to a second cutoff to provide a second comparison. The computer application may also cause the processor to evaluate the sepsis status associated with the blood sample based on the first comparison and the second comparison.