September is National Sepsis Month and we want all Associates to know what causes it and what symptoms to look out for in yourself and loved ones. Help us Save 1 Life A Day by understanding sepsis is the body’s extreme, life-threatening response to infection which impacts about 1.7 million people each year. Sepsis is the leading cause of deaths in hospital settings, and is believed to be the most common cause of death globally – more than cancer or heart disease.

During National Sepsis Month, we want to highlight how to identify, treat and prevent sepsis infections. Learn more about the Hospital Sepsis Program Core and read the following information on Sepsis and its prevention.

What is sepsis?

Sepsis can occur in anyone who has an infection, and often starts when the existing infection sets off a chain reaction throughout the body. Most cases start before a patient even gets to the hospital, and frequently begin as bacterial infections, such as lung, urinary tract, skin or gastrointestinal infections. This includes COVID-19 infection and flu, which can also cause patients to develop sepsis.

Without treatment quickly, sepsis can lead to tissue damage, organ failure or death.

What are the symptoms of sepsis?

Some of the most common symptoms of sepsis include:

• High heart rate or weak pulse

• Fever, shivering or feeling very cold

• Confusion or disorientation

• Shortness of breath

• Extreme pain or discomfort

• Clammy or sweaty skin

Who is most at risk for sepsis?

Anyone with an infection can develop sepsis. There are a few groups who are at a higher risk:

• Adults 65 and older

• People with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems

• People with recent hospitalization or severe illness

• Children less than a year old

• And those who have already had sepsis
  

Learn more about sepsis:

• CDC – What is Sepsis

• Sepsis Alliance

• Addressing the Sepsis Alert

• Ordering Code Sepsis Response Bundle