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Sepsis Program


The human body does not always respond appropriately to infections. An excessive or dysregulated response is more likely if a person has a weakened immune system, chronic illness, has recently undergone surgery, has a catheter, is on a ventilator, or is elderly. Instead of targeting the infection locally, the body releases an overwhelming amount of inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream.

This response to infection, known as sepsis, is a life-threatening condition that can lead to organ failure or death if not treated promptly.

Our communities provide care for thousands of elderly residents, short-term nursing and surgical    rehabilitation guests, and individuals with catheters and ventilators. Sepsis is a common challenge in communities like ours. This is why every Ciena Healthcare location adheres to a strict sepsis program designed to minimize the risk of sepsis and ensure rapid treatment when it occurs.

What Is Sepsis?

Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to infection triggers widespread inflammation. This may lead to things like tissue damage, organ failure and, in severe cases, death. It occurs when the immune system’s attempt to fight off an infection spirals out of control, causing an inflammatory response that can quickly damage vital organs, including the lungs, kidneys, and liver.

Some of the most common sources of infection that lead to sepsis include pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), infections in the abdomen, and surgical incisions. Even seemingly minor wounds pose a sepsis risk for vulnerable individuals.

Early diagnosis is crucial for the effective management and treatment of sepsis.

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Why Are People in Long-Term Care Communities More Prone to Sepsis?

People residing in long-term care and rehabilitation communities, including nursing homes and assisted living centers, are often at a higher risk of sepsis due to several health and environmental factors. Many residents have multiple underlying health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease or heart disease, which can weaken the immune system and reduce the body’s natural ability to combat infections effectively.

Invasive devices, such as catheters, feeding tubes and IVs, commonly required for long-term care residents, can also increase exposure to bacteria, providing a direct route for pathogens to enter the body and heightening the risk of infections that could lead to sepsis if not identified early.

Hospital transfers, medical interventions such as dialysis treatments, surgical procedures, or extended stays in intensive care units can also expose individuals to antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA, which are more challenging to treat and have greater potential to cause sepsis.

Personalized Care Plans for Individual Needs

Every person’s experience with sepsis is unique depending on their current health, age, and pre-existing conditions. The recovery journey can vary significantly from one person to another. At Ciena Healthcare, we develop a personalized care plan that aligns with each rehabilitation guest’s or long-term care resident’s specific health needs.

Recovery from sepsis can be unpredictable, and the individual’s needs may change rapidly. Our skilled nursing staff and doctors continuously evaluate and adjust sepsis treatment plans as necessary to maximize the resident’s chance of recovery.

Medication Management and Monitoring

Effective management of medications is vital for guests recovering from sepsis. Medications may include antibiotics, anticoagulants, and supportive treatments that require careful administration and monitoring.

Our skilled nursing staff collaborates closely with physicians to make sure all prescribed medications are administered correctly, at the right times, and in the correct dosages.

Due to the complex nature of sepsis recovery, guests are often at risk for secondary infections or other complications. Our team vigilantly monitors guests for signs of complications, adjusting treatment plans as necessary to address issues before they escalate.

Education and Support for Guests and Families

At Ciena Healthcare, we believe education is a fundamental part of care. We prioritize equipping residents, guests and their families with the knowledge needed for ongoing recovery and peace of mind. This education is particularly vital for guests receiving short-term nursing and rehabilitation who may be discharged home or to an assisted living community with fewer 24/7 healthcare staff. 

We provide clear information on what sepsis is, why it occurs, and what guests can expect during recovery. We also address common concerns about the physical, emotional, and cognitive impacts of sepsis, helping families prepare for the journey ahead.

Collaborative, Multidisciplinary Approach

Recovering from sepsis requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. At Ciena Healthcare, our sepsis program brings together skilled professionals from various fields to provide well-rounded, guest-centered care.

Our team of physicians, nurses, therapists, dietitians, and social workers collaborates to address every aspect of a guest’s or resident’s health.

Why Choose Ciena Healthcare for Sepsis Recovery?

At Ciena Healthcare, we recognize that sepsis recovery is a demanding process that requires specialized care and dedicated support. Our sepsis program meets the highest standards in rehabilitative and long-term care, focusing on compassion and personalized service.

Choosing Ciena Healthcare ensures guests and their families receive top-quality sepsis care from a team dedicated to each individual’s health and well-being.

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Skilled Nursing Professionals Prepared to Deal With Sepsis and Other Medical Events

Recovery from sepsis is a challenging journey, but at Ciena Healthcare, we are here to support residents and guests with an integrated, compassionate approach to care.

If you have questions about our infection prevention protocols and approach to sepsis treatment, reach out to Ciena Healthcare today. The availability of this program varies by community. Click "View Locations" below to find the nearest facility and the services available at that location.


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