Understanding Sepsis After Surgery
Though it's not common, many people experience a severe condition called sepsis after surgery, which can be life-threatening. Sepsis can lead to organ failure and, in extreme cases, can be fatal. Knowing the causes is essential for preventing it.
What Exactly is Sepsis?
Sepsis is the body's reaction to an infection, not the infection itself. While bacterial infections are the most common cause, viral infections can also trigger sepsis. Sometimes, it may arise due to medical errors during or after surgery.
What Causes Sepsis After Surgery?
Sepsis after surgery can be traced back to a medical mistake or a potential surgical error. Infections, even small ones, can develop into sepsis. Some common causes of post-op sepsis that may indicate medical negligence include contaminated surgical tools, medical devices that fail to work properly, and infections from improperly sanitized equipment to name a few.
Doctors and surgeons are expected to provide a high level of care, and if they fail to catch or treat an infection properly, it can lead to sepsis, putting the patient’s life at risk.
Can You File a Lawsuit for Sepsis?
If you or a loved one develops sepsis because of negligent medical care, it may be grounds for a malpractice lawsuit. This could be the result of failing to diagnose or treat an infection, not running necessary tests,misdiagnosis, or other negligence.
Recognizing Sepsis: How It's Diagnosed
Doctors diagnose sepsis by performing tests to check if the infection has reached the bloodstream or damaged organs. Signs to look out for include:
- Fatigue
- Pain or discomfort
- High fever
- Redness around the surgical area
- Increased heart rate
- Low blood pressure
If you notice any of these symptoms after surgery, seek medical attention immediately. Left untreated, an infection can lead to severe sepsis or septic shock.
Treating Sepsis
Antibiotics are often prescribed, and additional procedures might be necessary to ensure proper blood flow or to remove infected tissue. The faster the diagnosis, the better the chances of recovery. Fast treatment is essential for recovery.
Sepsis in Nursing Homes
Residents in nursing homes are more prone to developing sepsis, often due to poor care. Those with catheters, IVs, or who are bedridden are particularly at risk, especially if bedsores are allowed to worsen. Bedsores create an opening for bacteria to enter the body, making sepsis more likely.
If you or a loved one has suffered from sepsis, it may be a sign of medical malpractice, and you may be entitled to compensation. Reach out to the experienced Montana Medical Malpractice attorneys at Conner, Marr & Pinski to discuss your potential case.
