Onvida Health announces 43% reduction in sepsis-related deaths

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Onvida Health is announcing a major patient care milestone as hospitals and health organizations mark Sepsis Awareness Month.

Onvida Health said it has reduced its sepsis-related death rate by 43% this year.

Sepsis is a life-threatening emergency that happens when the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs. It can lead to severe sepsis and septic shock.

News 11 spoke with Onvida Health to learn how the hospital is making a difference in lowering its sepsis-related death rate.

Alexis Keane, Sepsis Program Coordinator with Onvida Health, said the hospital implemented a program through its electronic health system.

"We instituted a program through our electronic health system. It analyzes charts to see whether or not patients are likely to develop sepsis within the next few hours. It alerts doctors before symptoms arise, allowing them to provide care as early as possible," Keane said.

Sepsis is a life-threatening illness. If it is not treated immediately, it can become fatal.

Symptoms can include a high or low fever, an infection, and extreme illness. Keane said confusion can also be an important warning sign, especially among older adults.

"Especially with the older population, one of the biggest signs you can kind of write off is that confusion. If they weren't confused before and all of a sudden, they're confused, that's a big warning sign," Keane said.

If you suspect you or your loved one might have sepsis, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.