Sepsis and other consequences of infection

Helping Those Suffering From Sepsis

Sepsis is an extremely serious bacterial infection of the blood. Also called septicemia, it is a red flag for nursing home neglect. Sepsis can occur when bacteria enter the body through and open wound such as an IV line, catheter, surgery site, or bedsore. If an infection is not properly treated or prevented, sepsis can be the result. Unfortunately, sepsis is an all too common occurrence in nursing home residents and is often preventable with proper care. If your loved one has suffered from sepsis, the lawyers at Noonan Perillo & Thut Ltd. have the experience to provide knowledgeable legal counsel and assistance as you pursue compensation.

Causes of Sepsis in a Nursing Home

Sepsis can be caused by neglect and abuse in a nursing home setting when residents are not provided the level of care they deserve. Common triggers for this infection include:

  • Failure to regularly bathe and wash the resident
  • Bedsores and other wounds that are not prevented or properly treated
  • Failure to change and wash the resident’s clothing and linens
  • Failure to clean and disinfect the nursing home itself

In addition, when nursing home staff are inattentive and do not respond to the needs of the residents in a timely fashion, circumstances can arise that put residents at risk for sepsis. Once an individual has sepsis, the infection can quickly get extremely serious, particularly in an elderly patient with a weaker immune system. A sepsis infection can cause numerous symptoms including:

  • Sweating
  • Shaking
  • Hyperventilation
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Confusion
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Low blood pressure
  • Organ loss
  • Death

Because sepsis is so preventable with proper care, it is important to investigate the circumstances of any nursing home sepsis infection. We can help you determine if neglect was a factor. We offer free initial consultations during which time we will discuss potential strengths and weaknesses of your case. Contact us right away. We work with clients in Waukegan, throughout Lake County and across Illinois.