Infections & Sepsis in Florida Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, & Group Homes

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is a severe and often life-threatening response to infection. It occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection, triggering widespread inflammation that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. In nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and group homes, sepsis frequently develops from untreated or poorly managed infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, or infected pressure sores.

​

The most common sources of infection include the lungs, urinary tract, skin, and gastrointestinal system. Once bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can cause septicemia, a fast-moving medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.

Who is Most at Risk?

While anyone can develop sepsis, certain individuals face a much higher risk, especially in long-term care settings. These include adults over the age of 65, individuals with weakened immune systems, and residents with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer, or kidney failure. The risk also increases for those recovering from recent illnesses like aspiration pneumonia or who have been recently hospitalized. Residents who suffer from incontinence or experience poor hygiene due to inadequate care are also more vulnerable.

​

Nursing home, assisted living facility, and group home residents with intellectual or developmental disabilities, particularly those who are non-verbal, face even greater risk. Because these individuals may be unable to communicate symptoms such as pain, fever, or confusion, staff must be attentive and proactive in identifying changes. When caregivers miss these early warning signs, the consequences can be devastating.

​

When Sepsis Signals Neglect

​

Sepsis often points to underlying neglect. In many cases, infections that lead to sepsis could have been prevented, or caught much earlier, with basic monitoring, hygiene, and timely medical care. Facilities may be liable when they:

​

• Fail to monitor residents for signs of infection

• Ignore or delay physician orders

• Provide inadequate wound care or catheter hygiene

• Miss early symptoms like fever, rapid breathing, or confusion

• Fail to notify a physician of a resident’s change in condition

By the time sepsis is diagnosed, the resident may already be in organ failure. At that point, it’s often too late.

Contact FIDJ for a Free Case Review

​

In many instances, sepsis can either be avoided or properly managed through early intervention and treatment. If your loved one suffered from sepsis while in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or group home, contact the experienced attorneys at FIDJ for a FREE case review.

​

*The information contained herein is not medical advice.