Sepsis
Understanding Sepsis
Sepsis is a serious condition where an infection overwhelms the body and causes a widespread inflammatory response. If you suspect sepsis, seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment with antibiotics and supportive care including IV fluids can save lives.
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis occurs when your immune system triggers widespread inflammation throughout your body. If not promptly treated it can lead to shock, multi-organ failure, and death.
Common Symptoms
- High fever or very low temperature
- Rapid heart rate
- Difficulty breathing
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion or disorientation
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Shaking or chills
- Clammy or sweaty skin
Treatment of Sepsis
- Immediate broad spectrum antibiotics (first hour)
- IV fluids to maintain blood pressure
- Bloodwork to assess for organ dysfunction and blood cultures (to look for bacteria in the bloodstream)
- Additional testing to identify source of infection (such as urinalysis and urine culture as well as imaging of chest or abdomen and pelvis)
- Oxygen support if needed
- Acetaminophen for fever
- Broad spectrum antibiotics (deescalated later based on culture results)
- If sepsis progresses to shock, medications are started to support blood pressure (vasopressors)
- In addition to vasopressors, severe cases require admission to ICU and may require more advanced measures for life support such as mechanical ventilation or initiation of dialysis if there is evidence of renal failure
Who is at Higher Risk?
Factors that increase the likelihood of developing sepsis
Higher Risk Groups
- Adults over 65 years old
- Infants under 1 year old
- People with weakened immune systems
- Those with chronic conditions (diabetes, kidney disease, cancer)
- People taking immunosuppressive medications
- Those with recent surgery or invasive procedures
Hospital Risk Factors
- Invasive devices (catheters, breathing tubes)
- Open wounds or surgical sites
- Prolonged hospital stays
- ICU admission
- Antibiotic-resistant infections
- Multiple medical procedures
Prevention
Steps to reduce the risk of sepsis
General Prevention
- Get recommended vaccinations
- Practice good hand hygiene
- Keep wounds clean and covered
- Treat infections promptly
- Manage chronic conditions well
- Don't ignore signs of infection
In the Hospital
- Healthcare workers wash hands before care
- Proper care of catheters and IV lines
- Early removal of unnecessary devices
- Prompt treatment of any infections
- Monitoring for early signs of sepsis
- Following infection control protocols
Recovery and Outlook
What to expect after sepsis treatment
Good News
- Early treatment greatly improves outcomes
- Survival rates have improved with better recognition
- Organ dysfunction is often reversible
Recovery Process
- Recovery time varies from days to months
- Some people may feel weak for weeks
- Physical therapy may be needed
- Follow-up care is important
- Some may have long-term effects
After Hospital Discharge
- Complete the full course of antibiotics
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Watch for signs of recurring infection
- Get recommended vaccinations
- Report any concerning symptoms immediately