Home Research & Policy Published research Diagnostic delays in sepsis: Lessons learned from a retrospective study of Canadian medico-legal claims

Diagnostic delays in sepsis: Lessons learned from a retrospective study of Canadian medico-legal claims

This article aims to identify areas of focus to assist physicians with the early recognition of sepsis, using medico-legal data.

Abstract

Objective: Although rapid treatment improves outcomes for patients presenting with sepsis, early detection can be difficult, especially in otherwise healthy adults. Using medico-legal data, we aimed to identify areas of focus to assist with early recognition of sepsis.

Subjects: The study included cases closed between 2011-2020 that had documented peer expert criticism of a diagnostic issue related to sepsis or relevant infections.

Conclusions: Sepsis continues to be a challenging diagnosis for clinicians. Multiple visits to outpatient care may be an early warning sign requiring vigilance in the patient assessment.

Reference

Neilson H, Fortier J, Finestone PJ, Ogilby C, Liu R, Bridges E, Garber G. Diagnostic delays in sepsis: Lessons learned from a retrospective study of Canadian medico-legal claims. Critical Care Explorations [Internet]. 2023 Feb 3 [cited 2023 Feb 6];5(2):E0841. Available from: https://journals.lww.com/ccejournal/Fulltext/2023/02000/Diagnostic_Delays_in_Sepsis__Lessons_Learned_From.2.aspx