The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched Get Ahead of Sepsis, urging healthcare professionals, patients and caregivers to be alert to the symptoms, act fast if sepsis is suspected, and to prevent infections that can lead to sepsis.
• Prevent infections.
• Be alert to the signs of sepsis.
• Act fast if they suspect sepsis.
In addition, Get Ahead of Sepsis
provides materials and resources
to help healthcare professionals educate patients and their caregivers about preventing infections, recognizing early signs of worsening infection and sepsis, and seeking immediate care when needed.
What should healthcare professionals do if they suspect sepsis?
• Immediately alert clinician in charge if it is not you.
• Know your facility’s existing guidance for diagnosing and managing sepsis.
• Start antibiotics as soon as possible, in addition to other therapies appropriate for that individual patient.
• Check patient progress frequently. Reassess antibiotic therapy 24-48 hours to stop or change therapy as needed. Be sure antibiotic type, dose, and duration are correct.
To support patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals, the CDC provides educational materials and resources
including fact sheets, brochures, infographics, a new public service announcement, and a video about “Four Ways to Get Ahead of Sepsis.” Visit www.cdc.gov/sepsis
for more information.