Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Tip of the Month – Sepsis

Contributing Author: Susan Baldani, a life member of the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad.
Sepsis, a severe reaction to infection that can be life-threatening, is not a very well-known condition. However, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it “kills more than 258,000 Americans every year, making it the ninth-leading cause of diseaserelated deaths in the country.”
Some people believe that sepsis is something that only occurs in hospitals, but this is not the case. Dr. Craig Coopersmith, professor of surgery at Emory University School of Medicine and the former president of the Society of Critical Care Medicine, states “about two-thirds of cases are first documented by the emergency department, which means that they were acquired outside of a hospital setting.”
Sepsis often happens in the very young, very old, and those who have chronic illnesses and compromised immune systems. However, anyone can develop sepsis, even those with a simple scrape, wound, or burn that has not been properly treated. If you have had any type of infection and think you may now have sepsis, it’s very important to make this clear when seeking medical help. The Sepsis Alliance, along with the CDC, advises patients to actually say “I am concerned about sepsis.” According to Dr. Coopersmith, “If you get sepsis, you have a higher chance of dying than if you have a heart attack, stroke or trauma. There is no question that increasing awareness of sepsis would save lives.”
The signs of sepsis can be broken down in a simple acronym:
S – Shivering, fever, or feeling very cold
E – Extreme pain or general discomfort, as in “worst ever”
P – Pale or discolored skin
S – Sleepy, difficult to wake up or confused
I – “I feel like I might die”
S – Shortness of breath”
If sepsis is not caught and treated quickly, it can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death. It is a true emergency and medical help needs to be obtained immediatelyThe Scotch Plains Rescue Squad is a volunteer organization of Neighbors Helping Neighbors. With over 90 volunteers, we answer calls not only in Scotch Plains but in surrounding towns as well when needed. Besides answering calls, you will see our ambulances at many special events held in town, such as Scotch Plains Day, the Memorial Day Parade, high school football games, and the summer concerts on the Village Green. We are also available to provide demonstrations for Boys and Girls Scout troops, clubs, and any other group that may be interested in what we do. In addition, we lend out wheelchairs, crutches, canes and other assorted medical equipment free of charge. Please reach out to us if there is something we can do for you, scotchplainsrescuesquad@gmail.com or call (908) 322-2103 for non-emergencies.