Understand the Signs and Symptoms of Sepsis

September is Sepsis Awareness Month. Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming response to infection, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and possibly death. In the U.S., sepsis is the leading cause of death in hospitals with more than 258,000 sepsis-related deaths occurring each year

But we can change that, as sepsis is entirely preventable and treatable.

RWJBarnabas Health has focused on the early recognition and rapid treatment of sepsis, which has had a significant impact on patient outcomes for those that develop this life-threatening condition. Over the past two years, RWJBarnabas Health has seen a 16.8% reduction in sepsis mortality through staff education and the implementation of sepsis protocols at all of our hospitals.

But preventing infections is the best way to stop sepsis before it begins. It is important to understand the signs and symptoms of sepsis to better protect and advocate early treatment for family, friends, and yourself.

To learn more about sepsis and its symptoms, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) web site.