It's About TIME
Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency caused by the body's extreme response to an infection. If not treated quickly and properly, sepsis can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, amputation and death. In fact, about 250,000 American die from sepsis each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The risk of death increases every hour treatment is delayed and many sepsis deaths could have been prevented with rapid diagnosis and treatment.
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When it comes to recognizing the signs of sepsis, remember: IT'S ALL ABOUT TIME:
T — Temperature: Higher or lower than normal
I — Infection: May have signs or symptoms of an infection
M — Mental Decline: Confused, sleepy, difficult to rouse
E — Extremely Ill: "I feel like I might die," severe pain or discomfort