Sepsis is your body’s extreme and life-threatening response to infection. More importantly, sepsis is a medical emergency.

What are the warning signs of sepsis?

The warning signs of sepsis can resemble many other health conditions. Be aware of the following:

  • Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold
  • Clammy or sweaty skin
  • High heart rate
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dramatic drop in blood pressure
  • Rapid breathing
  • Darkened or reduced urine
  • Severe pain without a known cause

Who is at risk for developing sepsis?

  • Those older than 65 and those under one-year old are at highest risk.
  • Those with weakened immune systems due to medication or disease.
  • Those with chronic illness, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cancer or lung disease.
  • Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection can lead to sepsis (CDC, 2020).

What should I do if I think I have sepsis?

If you are experiencing any of the signs of sepsis, seek medical care and state, “Could this be sepsis?”

  • Sepsis begins outside the hospital in 80% of those affected.
  • Early identification and treatment are clinically proven to improve patient outcomes.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Get Ahead of Sepsis – Know the Risks. Spot the Signs. Act Fast. Updated February 25, 2020. https://www.cdc.gov/patientsafety/features/get-ahead-of-sepsis.html. Accessed August 27, 2020.

Sepsis_Fact_Sheet_WSD_English.pdf (squarespace.com)

Image of post author
Article by:

Marianne Krueger, BSN, RN, CCRN

Marianne Krueger, BNS, RN, CCRN, is the RN sepsis improvement coordinator for UofL Health – UofL Hospital. Marianne supports process improvement initiatives within UofL Hospital to ensure effective and quality care of sepsis patients by using evidence-based practice and current sepsis guidelines. Marianne serves as a resource for nursing staff and providers and evaluates processes to reduce barriers related to sepsis care.

All posts by Marianne Krueger, BSN, RN, CCRN
Calendar icon that indicates scheduling an appointment
Schedule an
Appointment