Sepsis, often referred to as blood poisoning, is the body’s most extreme response to infection and is a life-threatening condition, especially among the elderly. Severe cases of sepsis can lead to septic shock, organ damage from a dramatic drop in blood pressure, and death. Since sepsis is often the result of untreated infections and poor hygiene practices, it can indicate nursing home neglect.
Because the death risk for sepsis is so high (50 percent), it must be diagnosed promptly and treated immediately. Sepsis itself is not contagious, but the underlying infections that cause sepsis may be. This is why it is so important for nursing home staff to take proper measures to prevent the spread of infections. Families who lose elderly loved ones to sepsis should seek legal counsel.