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.
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