WHAT IS SEPSIS?
Sepsis is the body’s response to infection. It is also referred to as Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) with infection. Normally, the body’s own defense system fights off the infection in a particular body part, but with sepsis, the body overreacts and causes symptoms to occur throughout the entire body. When this occurs, there is an uncontrolled and widespread inflammation and blood clotting in small blood vessels throughout the body. Sepsis requires immediate treatment.
WHAT CAUSES SEPSIS?
Any kind of infection in the body can trigger sepsis. Sepsis can occur in anyone at any age, but you may be at higher risk if you: • Are being treated in a hospital
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF SEPSIS?
If you are not treated, sepsis may cause your organs to fail. You may also develop Septic Shock, which is sepsis with a low blood pressure. These problems can be life-threatening.
HOW CAN I PREVENT SEPSIS?
Ask About Vaccines
• Vaccines can decrease the risk of getting certain infections, such as the flu or pneumonia. Ask your healthcare provider if you should get a flu or pneumonia vaccine, and when to get the vaccine. Avoid the Spread of Germs
• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth unless you have washed your hands first.
WHEN SHOULD I CONTACT MY HEALTHCARE PROVIDER?
Contact your healthcare provider
if you:
• Have a fever
• Have questions or concerns about your condition or care
WHEN SHOULD I SEEK IMMEDIATE CARE?
Seek care immediately or call 911
if you:
• Have increased swelling in your legs, feet, or abdomen.
• Are short of breath or cough up blood
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF SEPSIS?
• Fever or hypothermia
• Chills or severe shaking
• Fast or irregular heart rate
• Fast breathing
• Confusion
• Urinating very little or not at all
HOW IS SEPSIS TREATED?
Sepsis is a serious condition that needs to be treated immediately.
Treatment of sepsis is often done in a hospital in an intensive care or critical care unit. While being treated for sepsis, you may need any of the following:
Medicines:
• Antibiotics: to help treat or prevent an infection caused by bacteria
• Heart medicine: to strengthen or regulate heartbeat
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