Symbolic illustration of sepsis readmission risks in an underserved community.

Sepsis Readmission Risks: What You Need to Know

Jordan Keane in Health & Wellness July 2025 • 4 min read.

"New research identifies key factors that can lead to repeat hospital visits for sepsis survivors, especially in underserved communities. Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones."

Sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body's response to an infection, is a major cause of hospitalization and can lead to frequent and costly readmissions. If you or a loved one has survived sepsis, understanding the risks of readmission is crucial for preventing future health crises.

While there's growing research on sepsis readmissions, less is known about the specific challenges faced by medically underserved populations. These communities often rely on safety net hospitals, which provide care regardless of a patient's ability to pay. A new study sheds light on these unique risk factors.

This article will break down the key findings of a recent study conducted at a safety net hospital, identifying the factors that increase the likelihood of sepsis readmission within 30 days. Understanding these risks can empower you to take proactive steps and work with your healthcare providers to improve your health outcomes.

Decoding the Risks: Key Factors in Sepsis Readmission

Symbolic illustration of sepsis readmission risks in an underserved community.

The study, which analyzed 1,355 sepsis survivors, revealed a 22.6% readmission rate within 30 days. This rate is consistent with previous studies, highlighting the ongoing challenge of sepsis readmissions. A significant portion of these readmissions (47%) were due to infections, raising questions about the effectiveness of initial treatment and the potential for new infections.

Several factors were found to significantly increase the risk of readmission:

Pre-existing conditions: Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), malignancy (cancer), and cirrhosis (liver disease) were more likely to be readmitted.
Bacteremia: The presence of bacteria in the bloodstream during the initial hospitalization increased readmission risk. This suggests that complete eradication of the infection is critical.
Vascular Catheters: Being discharged with a vascular catheter (used for medication or dialysis) was associated with higher readmission rates. Catheters can be a source of infection if not properly managed.
Sepsis Severity: Interestingly, less severe sepsis during the initial hospitalization was linked to a slightly reduced risk of readmission. This could be because patients with more severe sepsis receive more intensive monitoring and follow-up care.

These findings underscore the importance of managing underlying health conditions, preventing infections, and carefully monitoring patients with vascular catheters after discharge. For individuals with ESRD, malignancy or cirrhosis, more vigilant follow-up and proactive management of their conditions may help lower the risk of sepsis readmission.

Taking Control: What You Can Do to Reduce Your Risk

While some risk factors, like pre-existing conditions, can't be eliminated, understanding your individual risk profile is the first step toward prevention. Talk to your doctor about your specific risks and develop a plan to manage them effectively.

Here are some proactive steps you can take:

<ul><li>Optimize chronic disease management: Work closely with your healthcare team to manage conditions like ESRD, malignancy, and cirrhosis.</li><li>Prevent infections: Practice good hygiene, get vaccinated, and seek prompt treatment for any signs of infection.</li><li>Careful catheter management: If you have a vascular catheter, follow your doctor's instructions for care and monitoring, and report any signs of infection immediately.</li><li>Ensure adequate follow-up: Make sure you have a clear plan for follow-up appointments and medication management after discharge from the hospital.</li></ul>

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1177/0885066617726753, Alternate LINK

Title: Sepsis At A Safety Net Hospital: Risk Factors Associated With 30-Day Readmission

Subject: Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine

Journal: Journal of Intensive Care Medicine

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Authors: Mark A. Weinreich, Kim Styrvoky, Shelley Chang, Carlos E. Girod, Rosechelle Ruggiero

Published: 2017-08-18

Everything You Need To Know

What exactly is sepsis, and why is it considered such a serious medical condition?

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition arising from the body's response to an infection. This overwhelming response can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. It's not the infection itself that is the sole problem, but rather the body's exaggerated and harmful reaction to it. Recognizing sepsis early and seeking immediate medical attention are critical for improving patient outcomes. The complexity of sepsis lies in its ability to rapidly progress and affect multiple organ systems, making it a leading cause of hospitalization and mortality worldwide.

What are the main factors that increase the likelihood of being readmitted to the hospital after surviving sepsis?

Several factors can increase the risk of sepsis readmission. Pre-existing conditions like end-stage renal disease (ESRD), malignancy (cancer), and cirrhosis (liver disease) elevate the risk. The presence of bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream) during the initial hospitalization and being discharged with a vascular catheter also contribute to higher readmission rates. Surprisingly, less severe sepsis during the initial hospitalization was linked to a slightly reduced risk of readmission, potentially due to more intensive monitoring for severe cases. Addressing these factors through targeted interventions and close monitoring can help reduce readmission rates.

What is a 'safety net hospital,' and why is research focused on these hospitals important for understanding sepsis readmission?

A safety net hospital plays a crucial role in providing healthcare to medically underserved populations, regardless of their ability to pay. These hospitals often serve individuals with complex medical needs and limited access to resources, making them vital for ensuring equitable healthcare access. They face unique challenges, including limited funding and higher patient volumes, which can impact the quality and availability of care. Research focusing on safety net hospitals is essential for understanding and addressing the specific healthcare needs of vulnerable populations.

As a sepsis survivor, what are some concrete actions I can take to lower my chances of being readmitted to the hospital?

If you or a loved one has survived sepsis, several proactive steps can be taken to reduce the risk of readmission. First, closely manage any underlying health conditions such as end-stage renal disease, malignancy, or cirrhosis. Second, prevent infections by practicing good hygiene and seeking prompt medical attention for any signs of infection. Third, if discharged with a vascular catheter, ensure it is properly managed and monitored for signs of infection. Finally, discuss your individual risk factors with your doctor and develop a personalized plan for follow-up care and monitoring. Regular communication with healthcare providers and adherence to treatment plans are crucial for preventing future health crises.

Why do vascular catheters pose a risk for sepsis readmission, and what measures can be taken to mitigate this risk?

Vascular catheters, while essential for delivering medications or dialysis, can significantly increase the risk of sepsis readmission due to the potential for infection. Catheters provide a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the bloodstream, leading to catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs), a major concern for hospitalized patients. Proper insertion techniques, diligent catheter site care, and regular monitoring for signs of infection are crucial for minimizing this risk. Removing the catheter as soon as it is no longer needed is also an important strategy. The implications of catheter-related infections extend beyond readmission, potentially leading to prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and even mortality.