Sepsis is a medical emergency which should be treated quickly to reduce the risk of death.
When it comes to sepsis, remember It’s About Time. Watch for:
T – Temperature
Higher or lower than normal
I – Infection
May have signs and symptoms of an infection
M – Mental Decline
Confused, sleepy, difficult to rouse
E – Extremely Ill
Severe pain, discomfort, shortness of breath
If you experience a combination of these symptoms: seek urgent medical care, call 911, or go to the hospital with an advocate. Ask: “Could it be sepsis?”
Learn more at The Sepsis Alliance, It’s About Time.
As many as 80% of sepsis deaths could be prevented with rapid recognition and treatment.
Infection Prevention = Sepsis Prevention
- Practice hand hygiene.
- Practice proper wound care.
- Get recommended vaccines (e.g. flu & pneumonia).
- Take care of chronic conditions (e.g. diabetes, heart disease).
- Know the symptoms of sepsis, and ACT FAST.
- Seek medical care if an infection is not getting better with treatment.
Visit www.sepsis.org for more information on sepsis.
Questions? Email CarolAnn.Gelderman@nghs.com or call 770-219-9313.