Improving the Knowledge Gap of Sepsis Identification by Training First Responders in Prehospital Sepsis Screening.

Abstract

Objective: First responders play a crucial role in caring for patients with sepsis, as they are often first on the scene in emergency medical situations. Many first responders lack the advanced knowledge and skill set needed to identify patients with sepsis or those at risk for sepsis.

Methods: This mixed-methods study examined if the implementation of a sepsis education program would impact and reduce the knowledge gap in first responders' ability to identify patients at risk for sepsis. Two hundred and thirteen first responders participated in an online sepsis education program, during which their knowledge was evaluated using a pretest and posttest.

Results: The difference in the mean of the preeducation test scores and the posteducation test scores' mean was significantly different. The mean of the pretest scores was lower than the mean of the posttest scores, thus suggesting that the education of first responders is effective in increasing their knowledge of sepsis. After completing the program, participants felt better prepared to encounter instances of sepsis.

Conclusion: standardizing communication between first responders and the emergency room through a "Sepsis Alert" can improve treatment times and allow for more timely intervention.