Learn the signs of sepsis and what to do

Do you recall that Academy Award-winning actress Patty Duke died earlier this spring, on March 29 ? And do you recall the cause of her death? The cause listed was sepsis — brought about by a ruptured intestine.

Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection. It can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Yet, according to the Sepsis Alliance, a national patient advocacy organization, only about 44 percent of adults have even heard of sepsis, much less know how to recognize it.

So, if you had a chance to learn more about sepsis, which can strike at any age but is most life threatening for infants and vulnerable adults, would you take it?

Well, here’s your chance.

On Thursday, June 9, Community Caregivers Inc. is teaming up with IPRO to offer a vital health education program entitled, “Recognizing Sepsis as a Medical Emergency.” IPRO is a national organization providing health-care assessment and improvement services.

This program will be held at the Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue in Guilderland, beginning at 11 a.m.

The expert presenter will be Eve Bankert who is the IPRO Quality Improvement Specialist and project leader on the Community-Based Sepsis Awareness Initiative. As just noted, sepsis can be life-threatening and Eve will inform you about its early signs and symptoms.  And, just as importantly, she’ll tell you what to do.

Whether you are a community member, family caregiver, or service provider, you can learn valuable information about sepsis that could save a life. Eve will show a brief video followed by a presentation on the following:

— Recognizing early signs and symptoms of sepsis;

— Knowing who to call and what to do;

— Identifying high risk groups; and

— Simple things you can do to help prevent sepsis.

There will be plenty of time at the end for questions and answers. All are welcome and pre-registration not required. Again, please mark your calendar for Thursday, June 9, at 11 a.m. for this vital health education program. If you have further questions, you may call Community Caregivers Inc. a (518) 456-2898.

Community Caregivers Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that provides non-medical services, including transportation, and caregiver support at no charge to residents in Guilderland, Bethlehem, Altamont, New Scotland, Berne, Knox, and the city of Albany through a strong volunteer pool of dedicated individuals with a desire to assist their neighbors.  To find out more about our services or our volunteer opportunities, please visit www.communitycaregivers.org or call (518) 456-2898.

Editor’s note: Linda Miller, MPA, is the Outreach and Education coordinator for Community Caregivers.