Maternal Sepsis
Although death in maternity due to sepsis appears to be declining, it is still a significant cause of maternal death and pregnant women are still at a higher risk of developing sepsis.
Sepsis in maternity statistics
Analysis of statistics from the UK Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths and Morbidity has shown that the rate of maternal deaths from sepsis decreased from 1.13 per 100,000 maternities in 2006 - 2008 to 0.29 deaths per 100,000 maternities in the period 2012 - 2014. Nonetheless, that still represents the deaths of seven pregnant women directly from sepsis over that two-year period.
Risk Factors
Women are more likely to develop sepsis during pregnancy if they fall into one of the following categories:
- They are overweight or obese
- They are diabetic
- They already have a weakened immune system
- They are anaemic
- They are from an ethnic minority background
How does sepsis cause death?
One of the most common triggers for sepsis in pregnant women is a urinary tract infection, although it can be caused by other infections such as a chest infection. This can cause the body's immune system to over-respond, leading to organ dysfunction as the body's life-support systems come under increasing pressure.
Sepsis is a medical emergency. Urgent diagnosis and treatment is vital. Without this, the woman may die.
Monitoring vulnerable women
Pregnant women who come into one or more of the above categories, especially if they are known to have a pre-existing infection need to be kept under close observation following the birth for signs that they may be developing sepsis.
If they start to experience a high temperature or chills or feel nauseous and tired, they may be developing sepsis.
A quick diagnostic test would be for the medical practitioner to check their blood pressure, breathing rate and mental state. A change in these factors may suggest a severe infection.
Emergency Treatment
A pregnant woman suspected of developing sepsis needs prompt treatment.
Guidelines suggest treatment with intravenous antibiotics within an hour of identifying symptoms in order to give the woman the best chance of recovery.
The underlying infection also needs to be investigated and treated but initial antibiotic treatment should not be delayed to await the outcome of this investigation.
Medical Negligence
If the signs of a severe infection are not observed or investigated, leading to delayed treatment of sepsis, the woman may be entitled to pursue a claim for compensation.
If you or a loved one have suffered with the effects of sepsis, contact Glynns Solicitors for advice. We are a specialist medical negligence legal practice and would be happy to discuss your experience.
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