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Sepsis: Early Recognition to Avoid Hospitalization

Presented by Shelley Bhola

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Preventing rehospitalizations has been a priority for hospitals since 2012. Partnering with long-term care facilities that can help them achieve this goal is vital. Infections are one of the leading causes of hospitalization. The CDC estimates that 80% of those with sepsis develop sepsis outside of the hospital setting. Therefore, the rapid recognition and treatment of sepsis is essential. This course will guide the long-term care nurse in early recognition, proper communication to the physician, and interventions available in the long-term care setting that will help avoid a hospitalization.

Meet your instructor

A red-haired woman in a black top and patterned jacket poses confidently against a white background.

Shelley Bhola

Ms. Bhola has over 25 years’ experience in clinical management in the long-term care and assisted living market. Her previous roles include: Director of Nursing, Regional Consultant, Case Manager for managed care in the community and public health, MDS coordinator, staff educator, infection control, regulatory crisis…

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Chapters & learning objectives

What is Sepsis and who is at Risk?

1. What is Sepsis and who is at Risk?

The first step in correcting any illness is to have a thorough understanding of the disease process. This chapter will explain the pathophysiology of sepsis. Understanding the importance of early recognition in those at risk is the first step in saving lives lost to sepsis.

Early Recognition - Is it SIRS or is it Sepsis?

2. Early Recognition - Is it SIRS or is it Sepsis?

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is the earliest symptom of sepsis. One can have SIRS without having sepsis; however, one with sepsis will always have SIRS. Understanding this syndrome enhances the value in early interventions.

Communicating to the Physician and to the Family

3. Communicating to the Physician and to the Family

Lack of vital information leads to the use of unnecessary medications, as well as to increased hospitalizations. This chapter will focus on how to complete a simple head-to-toe assessment, what needs to be communicated to the physician, and in-house interventions that can be done immediately.

Interventions and Evaluation

4. Interventions and Evaluation

The interventions are in place, family and physician are involved, and the resident is currently resting calmly. Now what? This chapter will focus on the steps a nurse must take to verify the effectiveness of the interventions, what to do if there is no response, and when it is time to call the physician.