Sepsis is a silent killer that many people have never heard of. However, it causes more deaths globally each year than bowel, breast, and pancreatic cancer combined. Alarmingly, research suggests that almost 25% of sepsis-related deaths are preventable.
Even more concerning, recent research from Germany indicates that the four screening tools* currently used worldwide to identify life-threatening sepsis may be flawed. As a result, opportunities for early diagnosis and treatment can be missed.
Although sepsis can often be treated successfully with antibiotics when caught early, delays in diagnosis remain common. Unfortunately, these delays can lead to post-sepsis syndrome, long-term physical injury, psychological harm, or even death. Where this occurs, a medical negligence claim for delayed diagnosis of sepsis may be possible.
Sepsis, sometimes referred to as blood poisoning, is a potentially life-threatening condition. It occurs when the body’s response to infection becomes uncontrolled, causing widespread inflammation and organ dysfunction.
Sepsis can develop from a wide range of infections, including bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections.
Sepsis usually progresses through several stages:
Sepsis often begins with an infection in the lungs (such as pneumonia), urinary tract, abdomen (for example, a ruptured appendix), or through an open wound.
In response, the immune system releases chemicals into the bloodstream to fight the infection. However, in sepsis, this response becomes excessive.
The uncontrolled immune response triggers widespread inflammation. This can cause fever, rapid heart rate, fast breathing, low blood pressure, and confusion.
In severe cases, inflammation disrupts vital organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, or liver. Without urgent treatment, this can be fatal.
As sepsis worsens, it may progress to severe sepsis or septic shock.
Severe sepsis occurs when one or more organs begin to fail and requires immediate medical attention. Septic shock is the most critical stage and is characterised by dangerously low blood pressure and a high risk of multiple organ failure.
Prompt treatment is essential. Typically, this includes antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and supportive therapies such as vasopressors or mechanical ventilation in more serious cases.
A delayed diagnosis of sepsis can have devastating consequences. Unfortunately, several factors contribute to delays, including:
The issue of delayed diagnosis is so serious that the Government has supported the introduction of Martha’s Rule in England. This rule allows patients and their families to request an urgent second medical opinion if they believe their concerns are not being taken seriously.
This change follows the tragic death of Martha Mills in 2021. Martha developed sepsis after a cycling accident caused a pancreatic injury. A Coroner later ruled that she would likely have survived if doctors had recognised the warning signs earlier and transferred her to intensive care.
If healthcare professionals delayed diagnosing your sepsis and this resulted in avoidable physical or psychological harm, you may be entitled to compensation.
At NJS Law, our experienced medical negligence team can assess your case and guide you through the claims process.
Under the Limitation Act 1980, you generally have three years to bring a medical negligence claim. For this reason, it is vital to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
We have a highly skilled and compassionate medical negligence team with extensive experience in delayed diagnosis claims, including sepsis cases.
Our solicitors will:
Throughout your claim, we will support you with care, professionalism, and determination.
* NEWS2 (National Early Warning Score), qSOFA (quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment), MEWS (Modified Early Warning Score), and SIRS (Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome)
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