Clinton, Mo. – (Sept. 8, 2022) – In recognition of September being Sepsis Awareness Month, Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare is urging healthcare professionals, patients and their families to be aware of the signs and symptoms of possible sepsis and to act fast if sepsis is suspected. Sepsis affects nearly 50 million people worldwide every year.
“We want to increase awareness about sepsis to make sure everyone knows how to recognize and prevent this medical emergency,” said Christine Faulconer, RN-MSN, CPHQ, Director of Quality and Risk at GVMH. “Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have – in your skin, lungs, urinary tract or somewhere else triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. Without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure and even death. Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection, including COVID-19, can lead to sepsis.”
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a patient with sepsis might have one or more of the following signs or symptoms:
While sepsis can impact anyone, including the sick, the well and people of all ages, some groups are more likely to be affected. These include very young children, older adults and those with a weakened immune system.
“Please speak with your healthcare provider about steps you can take to prevent infections that can lead to sepsis and get medical care immediately if you or someone you know has an infection that is not getting better or is getting worse,” said Faulconer.
