Mitigating Racial Disparities in Sepsis Management

Authors

Monique L. Minter, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Surgical Critical Care

Advisor

Dr. Tom Colletti

Abstract

Sepsis, a preventable yet life-threatening condition, remains to be the leading cause of death in hospitalized patients. The improvements in sepsis and septic shock diagnosis and management guidelines have increased awareness, provided a more pragmatic approach to timely management, and reduced overall mortality. Nonetheless, communities of color continue to be disproportionately affected with increased incidences, hospitalizations, and complications. Sepsis related disparities among different populations is often correlated with suboptimal quality of care, an inadequate health infrastructure, poor infection prevention measures, late diagnosis, and inadequate clinical management. Research has shown that despite efforts to standardize care, a significant disparity still exists depicted in a wide variability in mortality. This article will review the factors contributing to racial disparities seen in sepsis and septic shock management and evaluate potential interventions aiming to reduce the gaps in quality of care and outcomes.

Recommended Citation

Minter ML. Mitigating Racial Disparities in Sepsis Management. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 4(1).