Research Nurse shares sepsis survival story and urges awareness of symptoms
A Research Nurse at Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) has shared her personal experience of surviving sepsis, praising the Intensive Care team who saved her life and urging the public to recognise the warning signs.
Deb Whyte, who was a student nurse at the time, didn’t realise how serious her symptoms were and how urgently she needed help.
She said: “I felt unwell, my joints were painful and stiff, I was exhausted and I had a rash, but I had no idea my condition could quickly become life-threatening. I tried to push through, thinking I could manage it myself.
“I now know those early signs shouldn’t be dismissed, which is why awareness is so important.”
Within 24 hours her symptoms had escalated. She collapsed at home and was taken to Arrowe Park Hospital by her son, where she was admitted to Intensive Care Unit (ICU), placed in a medically induced coma, and treated for toxic shock syndrome — a rare and life-threatening complication of sepsis. Doctors believe the infection may have started from something as minor as a paper cut which became badly infected.
Deb’s illness, which happened in 2008, was terrifying not only for her but for her family.
She said: “I was so unwell that I really feared I might not survive.
“My family were beside themselves with worry, sitting by my bedside, not knowing if I would pull through.”
While in the ICU, Deb experienced vivid hallucinations, at one point imagining she was on a spaceship. “It felt completely real,” she said. “But my sister stayed by my bedside the entire time, talking to me, reassuring me, and keeping me connected to reality. Her presence helped pull me through.”
Deb recalled how amazing the ICU nurses were, washing her hair, brushing her teeth and caring for her with great kindness.
She added: “They encouraged me to do things for myself as soon as I could. When you feel completely helpless, being able to regain some independence means everything.”
Now a Research Nurse at WUTH, Deb supports studies aimed at improving outcomes for patients with serious conditions. She supports the collection and analysis of patient data which feeds into clinical findings that are translated into better care nationally.
Deb said: “We’re grateful to everyone who takes part in the research studies we run, because it helps improve treatments for other patients.”
She is part of a team of doctors, nurses and other professionals who run research studies across the hospital, in ICU and many other departments.
Having experienced first-hand how quickly sepsis can become life threatening, Deb is passionate about raising awareness of the signs of sepsis so that people will seek treatment fast.
She said: “If you notice any of the symptoms, seek help immediately. Trust your instincts. Acting quickly can save your life.”
Dr Nikki Stevenson, Joint Chief Medical Officer at WUTH and Wirral Community Health and Care, said: “Deb’s experience shows just how suddenly sepsis can take hold and how vital it is that people recognise the signs and seek urgent medical help. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment give patients the very best chance of recovery. We are incredibly proud of the dedication and expertise of our Intensive Care teams, whose skill and compassion save lives every day.”
Symptoms of sepsis in adults and older children include: Confusion, slurred speech; blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue; rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, and difficulty breathing.
In babies and young children it also includes a weak, high-pitched cry that’s not like their normal cry; not responding like they normally do and being sleepier than normal, and not being interested in feeding or normal activities.
ENDS
Photo: Deb Whyte, Research Nurse outside the Critical Care Unit at Arrowe Park Hospital
More information on sepsis can be found here: