What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming response to an infection. If left untreated, sepsis can make blood pressure drop, which can damage tissue and organs, or even cause death.
What causes Sepsis?
Any type of infection in the body can cause sepsis, including:
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Pneumonia
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Urinary tract infection
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Wound infection
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Abdominal infection
What are the symptoms of Sepsis?
Sepsis is a combination of symptoms that may include:
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High or low body temperature, chills
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Rapid or difficult breathing
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Rapid heartbeat
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Confusion or light-headedness
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urinating much less than usual
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Cool, clammy skin, or red, flushed skin
Who is at risk for developing Sepsis?
The risk of sepsis is higher in people with certain health issues:
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Weakened immune systems, which may be caused by cancer or immune disorders
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Very young or elderly
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Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, AIDS, and kidney or liver disease
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Severe burn or wound
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Recent surgery or medical procedure
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Implanted medical devices or catheters
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Long-term use of antibiotics or steroid medicines
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How is Sepsis treated?
Treatment begins by eliminating the source of infection with antibiotic or antifungal medicines. You may also receive oxygen and intravenous fluids. In the most serious cases, patients will be cared for in a hospital Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where medicines to increase blood pressure and a machine to help with breathing may be used. For most patients, care begins in the Emergency Department.
Within 1-2 days of admission:
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Meet with members of your medical team
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Get to know the hospital unit, routine and resources
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Review Advance Directives and/or goals of treatment
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Identify a family spokesperson
Within 3-4 days:
Family involvement
To promote the best possible outcome, and to assist in decision-making:
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Families are encouraged to contact the health care team through your family spokesperson
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A care conference with the family, doctor, nurses, social worker, and other caregivers may be needed
Planning for care after leaving the hospital
Returning to your previous level of health can take months. Begin by building up activities slowly, and rest when you are tired. Some patients may need to continue their recovery at another facility. Discharge planners and case managers will work with you and your family to coordinate a smooth transition.
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