People often have a good number of questions after a family member dies because of sepsis. What most people do not know sepsis is not at all rare especially among the elderly. It is really one of the major causes of deaths in hospitals. Thousands and thousands of men and women die due to sepsis in the US every year.

Sepsis starts as a result of an infection. Common sources of infections include abdominal infections and bed sores. Such sources of infection are quite common in elderly men and women in hospitals/nursing homes/rehabilitation facilities.

The crucial element for the survival of sepsis is treating it as soon as possible. If the infection remains untreated it sepsis can progress as it progresses the odds of survival are significantly reduced. Once the patient goes through septic shock the likelihood of survival plummets to roughly fifty percent.

A different group of people who have a higher risk of getting infections are cancer patients, such as patients with cancer of the breast. A common treatment for a number of different cancers includes chemotherapy. Chemotherapy has the potential to considerably damage the individual’s immune system. For patients with a compromised immune system, infections can be a serious problem and can become septic. Furthermore, chemotherapy might be given via a port which can easily get infected. This same problem arises with patients in the process of dialysis.

Anyone with an elderly family member in a rehabilitation facility should be cognizant of the risks from infections and to speak with their physician if they notice evidence of an infection or have any concerns.

This note is meant for general educational uses only. It is not intended as, nor should it be interpreted as, medical or legal advice. For any health or medical concerns speak to a physician right away. Should you think you might be the victim of medical malpractice contact an attorney. An attorney can figure out whether you have a valid claim. Call the attorney immediately because the law limits the time you have to pursue a case.