2018 lectures
Fighting the Silent Killer – Saving Lives from Sepsis
Sepsis, otherwise known as blood poisoning, is a silent killer because it is unpredictable, rapid and can go undiagnosed due to its non-specific signs and symptoms.
This RCSI MyHealth Lecture aimed to enable the general public to recognise the signs and symptoms of sepsis, and empowers them with the information they need to ask the right questions if they have a concern about sepsis.
Part 1: Prof. Steve Kerrigan is Associate Professor in Pharmacology at RCSI and inventor of InnovoSep, a potential new breakthrough therapy in the fight against sepsis. Prof. Kerrigan is a passionate advocate for educating people about the signs of sepsis.
Part 2: Ciarán Staunton of the Rory Staunton Foundation tells his son's story. In 2012, 12-year-old Rory developed sepsis after cutting his arm playing basketball. Tragically, Rory's sepsis went undiagnosed until it was too late, and sadly he passed away. Ciarán and his wife Orlaith established the Rory Staunton Foundation to raise public awareness of sepsis, ensuring that no other child or young adult dies of sepsis resulting from the lack of a speedy diagnosis and immediate medical treatment.
Part 3: Prof. Ger Curley, RCSI Professor of Critical Care Medicine and Anaesthesia, discusses the devastating effects of sepsis, current treatment strategies available and highlights new innovative treatments currently being developed and trialed globally.
Part 4: Dr Fidelma Fitzpatrick, RCSI Senior Lecturer and Consultant Microbiologist, will outline the national strategy and guidelines as part of the Patient Safety First Initiative. This initiative aims to facilitate early recognition in order to maximise survival opportunity and minimise the burden of chronic sequelae.