Post-Sepsis Syndrome: The Invisible Aftermath

September is #SepsisAwarenessMonth. September 13th 2024 is also #WorldSepsisDay.

As a Patient Safety Advocate, I've seen first-hand the devastating impact of #sepsis. While sepsis itself is a life-threatening condition, the invisible aftermath known as post-sepsis syndrome (PSS) is an area that deserves much greater awareness and action.

PSS affects an estimated 50% of sepsis survivors, leaving them to grapple with a complex web of physical, psychological, and cognitive challenges long after their initial hospitalisation. These can include chronic pain, fatigue, organ dysfunction, memory loss, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Tragically, many patients feel abandoned by our healthcare system, and are left to navigate this uncharted territory alone.

The personal toll is immense. Individuals with PSS may struggle to return to work, care for their families, or reclaim their independence. Families too are deeply impacted, watching loved ones suffer and wondering if the "old" version of that person will ever fully return. All too often, the invisible nature of PSS results in misunderstanding and lack of support.

But this does not have to be the case. With greater recognition of PSS and a more robust support infrastructure, we can transform outcomes for these vulnerable patients. Healthcare providers must be equipped to identify, treat, and rehabilitate individuals with PSS. Multidisciplinary care teams comprising physicians, physiotherapists, counselors, and community navigators can help address the multifaceted needs of this population.

Policymakers, too, have a critical role to play. Dedicated funding for PSS research, rehabilitation programs, and patient advocacy initiatives would be a meaningful step forward. Insurance coverage for essential PSS therapies must also be ensured.

Most importantly, we must listen to the voices of #SepsisSurvivors. Their firsthand insights are invaluable in shaping a more compassionate, #Patient-Centric approach to post-sepsis care. The Irish Sepsis Foundation ?is a dedicated organisation committed to improving the lives of #SepsisSurvivors in Ireland. The UK Sepsis Trust is the UK's leading #sepsis charity, which aims to end preventable deaths and improve outcomes for?#SepsisSurvivors, raise public awareness and works to support anyone affected.

The journey to recovery may be long and arduous, but with concerted effort, we can ensure that no sepsis survivor faces the challenges of PSS alone. It is time to shine a light on this invisible aftermath and commit to transforming lives.

More information can be found at: https://www.sepsisfoundation.ie/ https://sepsistrust.org/

and https://mhpsellors.ie/sepsis-understanding-the-facts/

#PostSepsisSyndrome #SepsisAwareness #JustAskCouldItBeSepsis #WorldSepsisDay #SepsisAwarenessMonth