Sepsis protocol in brazilian hospitals: epidemiological analysis and clinical insights

análisis epidemiológico y insights clínicos

Abstract

This letter discusses sepsis, a leading cause of death in Latin America, particularly in Brazil, where it significantly impacts pediatric and adult patients. It highlights the importance of the data from the study by Benetti et al. (2020), which reveals the high incidence of sepsis in pediatric hospitals, adding practical Brazilian results on the implementation of the protocol against the disease in the country. Sepsis is a preventable cause of death in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with Brazil playing a central role in addressing the issue. Between 2022 and 2023, a survey conducted by the Antimicrobial Stewardship Group Brazil (ASP-BR) found that 61.4% of the 863 surveyed hospitals had a sepsis protocol. Notably, 15.8% of these hospitals lacked an intensive care unit (ICU), and a significant portion of hospitals in rural areas had smaller capacities. The study underscores the need for multi-disciplinary teams, particularly nurses, to play a key role in initiating sepsis protocols. In line with Benetti et al., the letter stresses the importance of timely sepsis recognition during the "golden hour" and adherence to Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines. It also calls for increased human and financial resources to combat sepsis effectively, in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The letter advocates for a robust system to track health indicators and improve emergency and critical care services, positioning sepsis as a silent emergency requiring urgent action from healthcare professionals.