Sepsis
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is a toxic response to infection that kills more than 350,000 Americans annually, surpassing breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer combined (CDC, 2023). Approximately 1.7 million adults in the U.S. develop sepsis each year, and one in every three patients who die in an American hospital has sepsis (CDC, 2023). Sepsis is a medical emergency that can affect anyone at any time and requires early detection and treatment. It occurs when the immune system releases chemicals into the bloodstream to fight infection, causing inflammation throughout the body. This response can damage tissues and organs, potentially leading to shock, multiple organ failure, and death if not promptly treated.
What Causes Sepsis and Who is at Risk?
Any infection can cause sepsis at any time. However, certain individuals are at higher risk, including the very young, elderly (65+), those taking immunosuppressive medications, and individuals with chronic diseases.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Sepsis?
- Confusion or disorientation
- Shortness of breath
- High heart rate
- Fever, shivering, or feeling cold
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Clammy or sweaty skin
How can I Prevent Sepsis?
- Practice good hygiene: handwashing, keeping cuts clean until healed, and dental hygiene.
- Prevent infections: Talk to your doctor or nurse about managing chronic conditions and getting all recommended vaccines.
- Know the signs and symptoms.
- Take antibiotics as directed: Use antibiotics only for bacterial infections as prescribed. Complete the entire dose to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Act fast: If you suspect sepsis in yourself or someone else, seek medical care immediately. Sepsis is a medical emergency, and time matters.
What is Offered at PVHMC?
Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC) is accredited by the Joint Commission for the identification and treatment of sepsis. PVHMC doctors and nurses are trained to recognize sepsis immediately upon emergency department triage and intervene with evidence-based practices. PVHMC is a national leader in providing comprehensive sepsis care from the emergency department through the hospital.
How Does PVHMC Set the Bar?
PVHMC has a system that rapidly identifies and treats septic patients within minutes of arrival. Early identification and treatment are based on the latest evidence-based practices, reviewed by a team of medical professionals to ensure all patients receive the highest quality of care. A "gold alert" is activated throughout the hospital at the initial sign of a septic patient. This alert notifies all departments that a septic patient requires rapid care. The patient is brought to the main emergency department, where a team of nurses, doctors, phlebotomists, and radiology technicians is ready to provide immediate treatment. The patient's care is closely monitored from triage until hospital discharge to ensure early identification and treatment of sepsis symptoms.
For more information, visit the CDC and Sepsis Alliance.
