CHRISTUS Ochsner Southwestern Louisiana recognizes Sepsis Awareness Month

September is Sepsis Awareness Month and CHRISTUS Ochsner Southwestern Louisiana Health System is recognizing this important observance by helping to educate the community about the signs and symptoms of sepsis.

Sepsis is the body's response to an ongoing infection. It occurs when the body’s immune response begins to damage its own tissue. Sepsis is a serious medical condition and can lead to tissue damage, shock, organ failure and, if not treated promptly, death.

In the U.S., more than 1.7 million people are affected by sepsis each year, which means someone develops sepsis every 20 seconds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Recognizing the signs of sepsis can be the difference between life and death,” said Amy Ortego, sepsis coordinator for CHRISTUS Ochsner Southwestern Louisiana. “Prompt medical attention is critical, and every minute counts when treating sepsis.”

Sepsis can happen to anyone, regardless of age or health status. Ortego said the acronym TIME can help recall the signs of sepsis:

• T: Temperature - Is your body temperature higher or lower than normal?
• I: Infection - Do you have signs and symptoms of an infection?
• M: Mental decline - Are you feeling confused or excessively sleepy?
• E: Extremely ill - Do you have a severe feeling of pain or discomfort, or do you feel like you might die?

She said there are other symptoms to look for, such as extreme fatigue or weakness, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, burning or painful urination and a new or worsening cough.

“Sepsis is the body’s extreme and life-threatening response to an infection,” Ortego said. “It's important to try to decrease your risk of infection by practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding those who are sick. If you or someone you love has an infection and it’s not getting better, or is getting worse, seek medical care immediately.”

If a patient arrives to the CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital emergency department showing signs of sepsis, a sepsis alert is initiated, and a multidisciplinary team will expedite an assessment and start them on the appropriate treatment.

To further enhance early intervention, CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital utilizes the LifeFlow device. This hand-operated rapid infuser is designed to deliver fluids quickly and efficiently to patients experiencing septic shock.

LifeFlow can rapidly administer fluid, significantly accelerating treatment. As a result, Ortego said clinicians can stabilize patients faster, reduce complications and improve outcomes for those experiencing severe sepsis and septic shock.

“Too many people underestimate how dangerous this condition can be,” Ortego said. “Our goal is to empower the public to know the signs and symptoms of sepsis, so they will seek care in a timely manner.”