World Sepsis Day celebrations at RNSH
Spotlight on sepsis To mark World Sepsis Day on 13 September, Royal North Shore Hospital held the ‘SOMEBODY #coulditbesepsis’ exhibition in partnership with Sydney-based photographer Helene Cochaud and Sepsis Australia. Running from 9th to 20th September, the exhibition showcased powerful images and stories of sepsis survivors and families who have lost loved ones, raising much- needed awareness about this life-threatening condition. Sepsis occurs when the body’s response to infection damages its own tissues and organs. It is estimated to contribute to nearly half of all hospital deaths in Australia. Every hour without treatment raises the risk of death by 8%. Survivors may also face long-term disabilities, such as post-sepsis syndrome, which can include both physical and cognitive impairments.
RNSH recently secured a national research grant, led by Associate Professor Naomi Hammond, to improve post-sepsis care, focusing on long-term support for survivors. The exhibition included interactive elements where visitors reflected on their sepsis experiences, such as sticker boards and a comment notebook. Photographer Helene Cochaud was inspired by the stories of sepsis survivors. “Sepsis is preventable if the condition is recognised quickly, so awareness is key to prevention... This project highlights the resilience of survivors,” she said. The exhibition was supported by the City of Willoughby, Northbridge Rotary, and Sepsis Australia, helping to spotlight the importance of timely sepsis recognition and treatment. doesn’t end when they leave work. They return home to continue providing essential support to a loved one with a chronic condition, illness, disability or is frail-aged. Barbara said a supportive work environment can make it easier for a working carer to manage the situation. “The Carer Support Service also offers additional resources and assistance tailored to the needs of staff who are carers,” she said. “The service is able to provide guidance, counselling support, connect staff with relevant service providers and networks, ensuring they have the tools needed to manage their dual responsibilities effectively.” To find out more about Carers Week and ways to support carers, contact the Carer Support Service on 9462 9488 or visit their website www.nscarersupport.com. au or Facebook page www.facebook.com/ NSLHDcarersupport.
Carers Week: 2.65 million reasons to care! The 14 to 20 October is National Carers Week 2024. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness, recognise and acknowledge the 2.65 million Australians who provide care and support to a family member or friend in our community. There are over 130,000 carers across the district alone.
NSLHD Carer Support Service Manager, Barbara Lewis, said she encourages health staff to continue engaging with carers to provide positive experiences. “All staff have a responsibility to identify and engage with carers as our partners in care. Their family member is our patient, but as a carer providing care at home, they have particular knowledge about the person they care for, and it’s invaluable to us as health professionals,” she said. “It’s crucial carers are included in the patient’s care journey so we can get the best possible health outcomes.” Balancing care and work puts extra demands on a carer’s time and energy. For many staff within the NSLHD, the role of providing care
WWW.NSLHD.HEALTH.NSW.GOV.AU
3
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online