For Caregivers and Other Loved Ones

When a Loved One Has Sepsis

When your loved one becomes ill with sepsis, it can be a scary time – one that most people aren’t prepared for. You may not know what sepsis is or how to help your loved one. Scroll down for resources that may help you navigate this complex and difficult journey, including When a Loved One Has Sepsis: A Caregiver’s Guide.

If you have lost a loved one to sepsis, click here.

When a Loved One Has Sepsis: A Caregiver’s Guide

To download the guide, click here

What is sepsis?

Sepsis is the body’s life-threatening response to an infection. To learn more, click here.

What tests are used to help diagnose sepsis?

There is no one test that can diagnose sepsis. Instead, doctors use a combination of blood tests to look for signs of infection and inflammation in the body, and to rule out other illnesses that could be causing their patient to be ill. To learn more, click here.

How is sepsis treated?

The standard treatment for sepsis includes antibiotics and IV fluids, but treatments will depend on the individual. To learn more, click here.

Many hospitals use a treatment bundle known as SEP-1. To learn more about it, click here.

What can my loved one expect to face after sepsis?

In the United States alone 1.4 million people survive sepsis each year. They may face life-changing physical, mental, and emotional challenges. To learn more, click here.

Sepsis Alliance Connect is a virtual support community designed for the millions of people affected by sepsis. Click here to learn more or to sign up.

To learn about how sepsis and other conditions may be related, click here.