What is Sepsis?

Sepsis describes a bacterial infection of the blood which can become fatal without treatment. The elderly often present a high risk for developing sepsis due to having weak immune systems especially if they have also pre-existing medical conditions.

Improper or neglectful nursing home care of residents with bed sores, surgical or slow healing wounds, or using intravenous lines or catheters can result in a septic infection.

Cause of Sepsis

Sepsis is caused by bacterial infection which spreads from any vulnerable point of the body into the bloodstream. Some symptoms of sepsis include irregular body temperature, and respiration, nausea, vomiting, seizures and body pains.

Bed Sores and Skin Ulcers

Bedridden or incapacitated residents are vulnerable to skin ulcers or bed sores. Some treatments include relieving pressure in affect areas, antibiotics, and cleaning and covering of wounds. Without treatment these wounds can blister, break open, and become infected. The infection can eventually develop into sepsis.

– from Steven Peck, Senior Attorney at Peck Law Group
 

About the Author

Attorney Steven Peck has been practicing law since 1981. A former successful business owner, Mr. Peck initially focused his legal career on business law. Within the first three years, after some colleagues and friend’s parents endured nursing home neglect and elder abuse, he continued his education to begin practicing elder law and nursing home abuse law.