Sepsis is an often-deadly medical condition that can pose serious risks for nursing home residents. In fact, it is estimated that about half of all deaths in nursing homes are due to sepsis. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of sepsis and what steps should be taken if a loved one contracts the infection.
What Is Sepsis?
Put simply, sepsis is an infection in the bloodstream caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. When bacteria enters the bloodstream, it triggers an immune response that causes inflammation and damage to tissues and organs throughout the body. Left untreated, sepsis can lead to organ failure and death. Sepsis can be caused by infections acquired at a hospital or nursing home, but it can also occur as a result of poor hygiene or inadequate sterilization techniques used by nursing home staff. The most common types of infections that can lead to sepsis include those that begin in the lungs, skin, urinary tract, and gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms of Sepsis
The most common symptoms of sepsis include fever, chills, rapid breathing, confusion, low blood pressure, dizziness, rash, and abdominal pain. If any of these symptoms are present in a nursing home resident, the resident should be immediately evaluated for possible sepsis infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are key for preventing serious complications from occurring.
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