If you or a family member are diagnosed with sepsis, many doctors, nurses and other clinicians might need to provide you with care for a long time. It is important that the clinicians involved in your care share information with each other about your condition and treatment. You should be involved in this process, along with any support people you choose, such as a family member or social worker.
This communication should occur when there is a change of shift of those caring for you, when you are moved within one hospital or moved to another hospital, and when you are discharged from hospital. Important information that you should receive includes:
- Your diagnosis of sepsis and any underlying conditions
- Concerns or risks that the clinicians may note about your care
- Your medical history
- The plan for antimicrobials and other medicines
- Your care requirements and recovery goals
- Who to contact if you have concerns about your condition and ongoing treatment; if there is a central person coordinating your care, this should be documented
- The healthcare team you are receiving care from; this can range from medical specialists to allied health professionals, such as a physiotherapist or dietitian
- Who the healthcare service should contact, such as a carer, family member or substitute decision-maker, if you cannot make a decision yourself.
This information should be provided in a way that you understand. It should also be easily accessible and culturally safe.