A survivor of sepsis in Winnipeg is advocating for changes in Manitoba’s approach to the condition following his near-death experience nine years ago. Mac Horsburgh, who almost lost his life due to a misdiagnosed finger cyst that led to sepsis, believes improvements are necessary in how sepsis cases are handled.
Horsburgh underwent extensive medical treatment, including surgery, a coma, and weeks in intensive care, before eventually being discharged. Reflecting on his ordeal, he emphasized the need for better prevention and early intervention for sepsis cases.
Inspired by Nova Scotia’s recent initiative to expedite sepsis treatment, Horsburgh sees an opportunity for Manitoba to follow suit. In Nova Scotia, nurses and paramedics are now empowered to initiate antibiotic treatment for suspected sepsis cases without waiting for a doctor’s order, aiming to reduce response times and improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Vanessa Sweet, a key figure in Nova Scotia’s sepsis action plan, highlighted the importance of swift treatment to prevent the severe consequences of sepsis, which can lead to organ failure and death if not addressed promptly. The province has also introduced standardized protocols and information packages for sepsis patients to enhance care and recovery.
In Manitoba, efforts are being made to ensure consistent treatment protocols for sepsis patients across the province. While currently only certain healthcare professionals can prescribe sepsis medication in Manitoba, there are discussions about expanding this authority to enhance response times and patient care.
Acknowledging the progress being made, Horsburgh remains cautiously optimistic about the potential improvements in sepsis care in Manitoba. He stressed the importance of concrete actions over mere promises, emphasizing the need for tangible changes to benefit sepsis patients in the province.