What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is your body’s overwhelming response to infection or injury, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, amputations, and death.

Who is at Risk?

Sepsis is more likely to affect very young children, elderly, and people with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems.

What are the Symptoms?

There is not a single sign or symptom of sepsis, it is a combination and may include any of the following:
S-Shivering, fever, or very cold
E- Extreme pain or discomfort
P- Pale or discolored skin
S- Sleepy, difficult to arouse
I- “I feel like I might die.”
S- Short of breath

If you have a combination of these symptoms, especially if you have had recent surgery or a recent infection, see your physician immediately, call 9-1-1, or come to Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Room.

What Causes Sepsis?

Sepsis is caused by an infection. The infection can be viral, bacterial, fungal, or parasitic.

Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Sepsis Certification.

While Sepsis can’t always be prevented, practicing good hand-washing and staying current with vaccinations (i.e. influenza and pneumonia vaccines) have been proven to decrease the risk.
Sepsis Facts:
•    Sepsis affects over 30 million people worldwide each year.
•    The risk of dying from sepsis increases by 8% each hour treatment is delayed.
•    270,000 people die in the United States each year from Sepsis (One person every 2 minutes).

Sepsis is a Medical Emergency. If you suspect Sepsis, call 9-1-1 immediately.

REFERENCE: www.cdc.gov/pubs

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911. If you need to go the emergency room, we’re ready for you 24/7.

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