Variation in Postsepsis Readmission Patterns: A Cohort Study of Veterans Affairs Beneficiaries

Hospital readmission after surviving sepsis: A systematic review of readmission reasons and meta-analysis of readmission rates

PURPOSE

To review the evidence regarding hospital readmission diagnoses and analyse related readmission rates following a sepsis admission.

METHODS

Five databases, grey literature, and selected article reference lists were searched in May and June 2024. Included studies investigated sepsis survivor readmissions and reported readmission diagnoses and rates. Meta-analyses of readmission rates were performed.

RESULTS

After screening, 51 studies were included, with most studies (46/51; 90.2 %) investigating adult survivors. Infection or sepsis were reported as the most common readmission reason in 18 of the 21 studies investigating three or more readmission diagnoses in adults. Meta-analyses showed that 4.7 % (95 % CI: 3.1 to 6.5 %, PI: 0.3-13.4 %, n = 11 studies) of adult survivors readmitted to hospital with another sepsis diagnosis at 30 days, 8.1 % (95 % CI: 4.5 to 12.7 %, PI: <0.1-29.0 %, n = 7) at 90 days, and 16.4 % (95 % CI: 11.3 to 22.2 %, PI: <0.1-96.3 %, n = 3) at one year. At 30 days 3.5 % (95 % CI: 2.2-5.0 %, PI: 0.3-10.0 %, n = 7) of adult survivors readmitted to hospital with a cardiovascular disease diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Infection and sepsis are frequent readmission diagnoses for sepsis survivors, with one in 21 adult survivors readmitted for sepsis at 30-days. PROSPERO registration: CRD42023455851.

M2 Microglia-Derived Exosomes Protect Against Glutamate-Induced HT22 Cell Injury via Exosomal miR-124-3p

As one of the most serious complications of sepsis, sepsis-associated encephalopathy has not been effectively treated or prevented. Exosomes, as a new therapeutic method, play a protective role in neurodegenerative diseases, stroke and traumatic brain injury in recent years. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of exosomes in glutamate (Glu)-induced neuronal injury, and to explore its mechanism, providing new ideas for the treatment of sepsis-associated encephalopathy. The neuron damage model induced by Glu was established, and its metabolomics was analyzed and identified. BV2 cells were induced to differentiate into M1 and M2 subtypes. After the exosomes from both M1-BV2 cells and M2-BV2 cells were collected, exosome morphological identification was performed by transmission electron microscopy and exosome-specific markers were also detected. These exosomes were then cocultured with HT22 cells. CCK-8 method and LDH kit were used to detect cell viability and toxicity. Cell apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS content were respectively detected by flow cytometry, JC-1 assay and DCFH-DA assay. MiR-124-3p expression level was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay predicted and verified the relationship between miR-124-3p and ROCK1 or ROCK2. Through metabolomics, 81 different metabolites were found, including fructose, GABA, 2, 4-diaminobutyric acid, etc. The enrichment analysis of differential metabolites showed that they were mainly enriched in glutathione metabolism, glycine and serine metabolism, and urea cycle. M2 microglia-derived exosomes could reduce the apoptosis, decrease the accumulation of ROS, restore the mitochondrial membrane potential and the anti-oxidative stress ability in HT22 cells induced by Glu. It was also found that the protective effect of miR-124-3p mimic on neurons was comparable to that of M2-EXOs. Additionally, M2-EXOs might carry miR-124-3p to target ROCK1 and ROCK2 in neurons, affecting ROCK/PTEN/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, and then reducing Glu-induced neuronal apoptosis. M2 microglia-derived exosomes may protect HT22 cells against Glu-induced injury by transferring miR-124-3p into HT22 cells, with ROCK being a target gene for miR-124-3p.

Unmasking the hidden aftermath: postintensive care unit sequelae, discharge preparedness, and long-term follow-up

A significant portion of individuals who have experienced critical illness encounter new or exacerbated impairments in their physical, cognitive, or mental health, commonly referred to as postintensive care syndrome. Moreover, those who survive critical illness often face an increased risk of adverse consequences, including infections, major cardiovascular events, readmissions, and elevated mortality rates, during the months following hospitalization. These findings emphasize the critical necessity for effective prevention and management of long-term health deterioration in the critical care environment. Although conclusive evidence from well-designed randomized clinical trials is somewhat limited, potential interventions include strategies such as limiting sedation, early mobilization, maintaining family presence during the intensive care unit stay, implementing multicomponent transition programs (from intensive care unit to ward and from hospital to home), and offering specialized posthospital discharge follow-up. This review seeks to provide a concise summary of recent medical literature concerning long-term outcomes following critical illness and highlight potential approaches for preventing and addressing health decline in critical care survivors.

Multidrug-Resistant Sepsis: A Critical Healthcare Challenge

Sepsis globally accounts for an alarming annual toll of 48.9 million cases, resulting in 11 million deaths, and inflicts an economic burden of approximately USD 38 billion on the United States healthcare system. The rise of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) has elevated the urgency surrounding the management of multidrug-resistant (MDR) sepsis, evolving into a critical global health concern. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current epidemiology of (MDR) sepsis and its associated healthcare challenges, particularly in critically ill hospitalized patients. Highlighted findings demonstrated the complex nature of (MDR) sepsis pathophysiology and the resulting immune responses, which significantly hinder sepsis treatment. Studies also revealed that aging, antibiotic overuse or abuse, inadequate empiric antibiotic therapy, and underlying comorbidities contribute significantly to recurrent sepsis, thereby leading to septic shock, multi-organ failure, and ultimately immune paralysis, which all contribute to high mortality rates among sepsis patients. Moreover, studies confirmed a correlation between elevated readmission rates and an increased risk of cognitive and organ dysfunction among sepsis patients, amplifying hospital-associated costs. To mitigate the impact of sepsis burden, researchers have directed their efforts towards innovative diagnostic methods like point-of-care testing (POCT) devices for rapid, accurate, and particularly bedside detection of sepsis; however, these methods are currently limited to detecting only a few resistance biomarkers, thus warranting further exploration. Numerous interventions have also been introduced to treat MDR sepsis, including combination therapy with antibiotics from two different classes and precision therapy, which involves personalized treatment strategies tailored to individual needs. Finally, addressing MDR-associated healthcare challenges at regional levels based on local pathogen resistance patterns emerges as a critical strategy for effective sepsis treatment and minimizing adverse effects.

Cardiac dysfunction in survivors of sepsis: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Sepsis is associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events in a magnitude comparable to other major cardiovascular risk factors. Sepsis is one of the most common reasons for intensive care admission and survivors often have significant functional limitations following discharge. However, it is not clear to what extent chronic cardiovascular dysfunction might mediate these functional impairments, or how we might screen and manage these patients at risk of chronic cardiovascular disease. We conducted a scoping review to map existing evidence and identify research gaps relating to cardiovascular dysfunction following sepsis.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL databases using a concept, context, population (CoCoPop) framework. Studies examining cardiovascular outcomes or symptoms following an episode of sepsis in adults were included. Data were mapped based on the population assessed, cardiovascular outcomes examined, inclusion of objective measures of cardiac dysfunction such as biomarkers or cardiovascular imaging, or whether cardiovascular symptoms or patient-reported functional outcomes measures were recorded.

RESULTS

We identified 11 210 articles of which 70 were eligible for full text review and 28 were included in final analysis. Across our dataset, a wide range of incident cardiovascular outcomes were reported in the literature including incidence of congestive heart failure (13/28), arrhythmia (6/28), myocardial infarction (24/28) or cardiovascular death or all-cause mortality (20/28). Only 39% (11/28) of articles reported objective measures of cardiovascular function and only one article related cardiovascular function to functional impairment via patient-reported outcome measures.

CONCLUSION

There are significant gaps in our understanding of cardiac dysfunction following sepsis . While the research highlights the strong association of sepsis with a variety of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, further prospective work is required to understand the mechanisms that mediate this phenomenon and how we can best identify and manage patients at risk.

Passing the SNF Test: A Secondary Analysis of a Sepsis Transition Intervention Trial Among Patients Discharged to Post-Acute Care

OBJECTIVES

Sepsis survivors discharged to post-acute care facilities experience high rates of mortality and hospital readmission. This study compared the effects of a Sepsis Transition and Recovery (STAR) program vs usual care (UC) on 30-day mortality and hospital readmission among sepsis survivors discharged to post-acute care.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of a multisite pragmatic randomized clinical trial.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Sepsis survivors discharged to post-acute care.

METHODS

We conducted a secondary analysis of patients from the IMPACTS (Improving Morbidity During Post-Acute Care Transitions for Sepsis) randomized clinical trial who were discharged to post-acute care. IMPACTS evaluated the effectiveness of STAR, a nurse-navigator-led program to deliver best practice post-sepsis care. Subjects were randomized to receive either STAR or UC. The primary outcome was 30-day readmission and mortality. We also evaluated hospital-free days alive as a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

Of 691 patients enrolled in IMPACTS, 175 (25%) were discharged to post-acute care [143 (82%) to skilled nursing facilities, 12 (7%) to long-term acute care hospitals, and 20 (11%) to inpatient rehabilitation]. Of these, 87 received UC and 88 received the STAR intervention. The composite 30-day all-cause mortality and readmission endpoint occurred in 26 (29.9%) patients in the UC group vs 18 (20.5%) in the STAR group [risk difference -9.4% (95% CI -22.2 to 3.4); adjusted odds ratio 0.58 (95% CI 0.28 to 1.17)]. Separately, 30-day all-cause mortality was 8.1% in the UC group compared with 5.7% in the STAR group [risk difference -2.4% (95% CI -9.9 to 5.1)] and 30-day all-cause readmission was 26.4% in the UC group compared with 17.1% in the STAR program [risk difference -9.4% (95% CI -21.5 to 2.8)].

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

There are few proven interventions to reduce readmission among patients discharged to post-acute care facilities. These results suggest the STAR program may reduce 30-day mortality and readmission rates among sepsis survivors discharged to post-acute care facilities.

Environmental Enrichment Protects Against Sepsis-Associated Encephalopathy-Induced Learning and Memory Deficits by Enhancing the Synthesis and Release of Vasopressin in the Supraoptic Nucleus

Background

As a severe complication of sepsis, sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) usually manifests as impaired learning and memory ability in survivors. Previous studies have reported that environmental enrichment (EE) can increase the learning and memory ability in different brain injury models. However, there has been no research on the possible positive effect of EE on SAE.

Aim

The present study aimed to test the effect of EE on SAE-induced impairment of learning and memory and its related mechanisms.

Methods

A Morris water maze test (MWM) was used to evaluate the learning and memory ability of SAE rats that received EE housing or not. The expression of vasopressin (VP) was assessed using immunofluorescence microscopy and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). The synthesis of VP in the supraoptic nucleus (SON) was determined using quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR analysis. Moreover, inflammatory markers and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were detected using ELISA.

Results

The results showed that SAE induced a decreased learning and memory ability, while EE reversed this impairment. EE also enhanced the synthesis and secretion of VP in the SON. Blocking the action of VP in the hippocampus interrupted the EE-induced amelioration of learning and memory impairment. Moreover, EE induced changes to the levels of BDNF and cytokines in the hippocampus and these effects were mediated by VP binding to the VP receptor 1a.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated that the enhanced synthesis and secretion of VP in the SON are a key determinant responsible for EE-induced alleviation of learning and memory deficits caused by SAE.

Association between sepsis survivorship and long-term cardiovascular outcomes in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

We aimed to determine the association between sepsis and long-term cardiovascular events.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of observational studies evaluating post-sepsis cardiovascular outcomes in adult sepsis survivors. MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and Database of Systematic Reviews were searched from inception until April 21st, 2021. Two reviewers independently extracted individual study data and evaluated risk of bias. Random-effects models estimated the pooled crude cumulative incidence and adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) of cardiovascular events compared to either non-septic hospital survivors or population controls. Primary outcomes included myocardial infarction, stroke, and congestive heart failure; outcomes were analysed at maximum reported follow-up (from 30 days to beyond 5 years post-discharge).

RESULTS

Of 12,649 screened citations, 27 studies (25 cohort studies, 2 case-crossover studies) were included with a median of 4,289 (IQR 502-68,125) sepsis survivors and 18,399 (IQR 4,028-83,506) controls per study. The pooled cumulative incidence of myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure in sepsis survivors ranged from 3 to 9% at longest reported follow-up. Sepsis was associated with a higher long-term risk of myocardial infarction (aHR 1.77 [95% CI 1.26 to 2.48]; low certainty), stroke (aHR 1.67 [95% CI 1.37 to 2.05]; low certainty), and congestive heart failure (aHR 1.65 [95% CI 1.46 to 1.86]; very low certainty) compared to non-sepsis controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Surviving sepsis may be associated with a long-term, excess hazard of late cardiovascular events which may persist for at least 5 years following hospital discharge.

Impact of Baseline Characteristics on Future Episodes of Bloodstream Infections: Multistate Model in Septic Patients With Bloodstream Infections

BACKGROUND

Looking only at the index infection, studies have described risk factors for infections caused by resistant bacteria. We hypothesized that septic patients with bloodstream infections may transition across states characterized by different microbiology and that their trajectory is not uniform. We also hypothesized that baseline risk factors may influence subsequent blood culture results.

METHODS

All adult septic patients with positive blood cultures over a 7-year period were included in the study. Baseline risk factors were recorded. We followed all survivors longitudinally and recorded subsequent blood culture results. We separated states into bacteremia caused by gram-positive cocci, susceptible gram-negative bacilli (sGNB), resistant GNB (rGNB), and Candida spp. Detrimental transitions were considered when transitioning to a culture with a higher mortality risk (rGNB and Candida spp.). A multistate Markov-like model was used to determine risk factors associated with detrimental transitions.

RESULTS

A total of 990 patients survived and experienced at least 1 transition, with a total of 4282 transitions. Inappropriate antibiotics, previous antibiotic exposure, and index bloodstream infection caused by either rGNB or Candida spp. were associated with detrimental transitions. Double antibiotic therapy (beta-lactam plus either an aminoglycoside or a fluoroquinolone) protected against detrimental transitions.

CONCLUSION

Baseline characteristics that include prescribed antibiotics can identify patients at risk for subsequent bloodstream infections caused by resistant bacteria. By altering the initial treatment, we could potentially influence future bacteremic states.

Assessment of Potentially Preventable Hospital Readmissions After Major Surgery and Association With Public vs Private Health Insurance and Comorbidities

IMPORTANCE

Rehospitalization after major surgery is common and represents a significant cost to the health care system. Little is known regarding the causes of these readmissions and the degree to which they may be preventable.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the degree to which readmissions after major surgery are potentially preventable.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cohort study used a weighted sample of 1 937 354 patients from the 2017 National Readmissions Database to evaluate all adult inpatient hospitalizations for 1 of 7 common major surgical procedures. Statistical analysis was performed from January 14 to November 30, 2020.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The study calculated 90-day readmission rates as well as rates of readmissions that were considered potentially preventable. Potentially preventable readmissions (PPRs) were defined as those with a primary diagnosis code for superficial surgical site infection, acute kidney injury, aspiration pneumonitis, or any of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality-defined ambulatory care sensitive conditions. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with PPRs.

RESULTS

A total weighted sample of 1 937 354 patients (1 048 046 women [54.1%]; mean age, 66.1 years [95% CI, 66.0-66.3 years]) underwent surgical procedures; 164 755 (8.5%) experienced a readmission within 90 days. Potentially preventable readmissions accounted for 29 321 (17.8%) of all 90-day readmissions, for an estimated total cost to the US health care system of approximately $296 million. The most common reasons for PPRs were congestive heart failure exacerbation (34.6%), pneumonia (12.0%), and acute kidney injury (22.5%). In a multivariable model of adults aged 18 to 64 years, patients with public health insurance (Medicare or Medicaid) had more than twice the odds of PPR compared with those with private insurance (adjusted odds ratio, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.94-2.25). Among patients aged 65 years or older, patients with private insured had 18% lower odds of PPR compared with patients with Medicare as the primary payer (adjusted odds ratio, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.74-0.90).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study suggests that nearly 1 in 5 readmissions after surgery are potentially preventable and account for nearly $300 million in costs. In addition to better inpatient care, improved access to ambulatory care may represent an opportunity to reduce costly readmissions among surgical patients.

Measurement of Sepsis in a National Cohort Using Three Different Methods to Define Baseline Organ Function

Rationale: In 2017, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed a new surveillance definition of sepsis, the adult sepsis event (ASE), to better track sepsis epidemiology. The ASE requires evidence of acute organ dysfunction and defines baseline organ function pragmatically as the best in-hospital value. This approach may undercount sepsis if new organ dysfunction does not resolve by discharge.Objectives: To understand how sepsis identification and outcomes differ when using the best laboratory values during hospitalization versus methods that use historical lookbacks to define baseline organ function.Methods: We identified all patients hospitalized at 138 Veterans Affairs hospitals (2013-2018) admitted via the emergency department with two or more systemic inflammatory response criteria, were treated with antibiotics within 48 hours (i.e., had potential infection), and completed 4+ days of antibiotics (i.e., had suspected infection). We considered the following three approaches to defining baseline renal, hematologic, and liver function: the best values during hospitalization (as in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's ASE), the best values during hospitalization plus the prior 90 days (3-mo baseline), and the best values during hospitalization plus the prior 180 days (6-mo baseline). We determined how many patients met the criteria for sepsis by each approach, and then compared characteristics and outcomes of sepsis hospitalizations between the three approaches.Results: Among 608,128 hospitalizations with potential infection, 72.1%, 68.5%, and 58.4% had creatinine, platelet, and total bilirubin measured, respectively, in the prior 3 months. A total of 86.0%, 82.6%, and 74.8%, respectively, had these labs in the prior 6 months. Using the hospital baseline, 100,568 hospitalizations met criteria for community-acquired sepsis. By contrast, 111,983 and 117,435 met criteria for sepsis using the 3- and 6-month baselines, for a relative increase of 11% and 17%, respectively. Patient characteristics were similar across the three approaches. In-hospital mortality was 7.2%, 7.0%, and 6.8% for sepsis hospitalizations identified using the hospital, 3-month baseline, and 6-month baseline. The 30-day mortality was 12.5%, 12.7%, and 12.5%, respectively.Conclusions: Among veterans hospitalized with potential infection, the majority had laboratory values in the prior 6 months. Using 3- and 6-month lookbacks to define baseline organ function resulted in an 11% and 17% relative increase, respectively, in the number of sepsis hospitalizations identified.

What outcomes should be evaluated in critically ill patients?

Randomized clinical trials in intensive care prioritize disease-focused outcomes rather than patient-centered outcomes. A paradigm shift considering the evaluation of measures after hospital discharge and measures focused on quality of life and common symptoms, such as pain and dyspnea, could better reflect the wishes of patients and their families. However, barriers related to the systematization of the interpretation of these outcomes, the heterogeneity of measurement instruments and the greater difficulty in performing the studies, to date, seem to hinder this change. In addition, the joint participation of patients, families, researchers, and clinicians in the definition of study outcomes is not yet a reality.

Mortality in sepsis and septic shock in Europe, North America and Australia between 2009 and 2019- results from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Sepsis and septic shock remain drivers for mortality in critically ill patients. The heterogeneity of the syndrome hinders the generation of reproducible numbers on mortality risks. Consequently, mortality rates range from 15 to 56%. We aimed to update and extend the existing knowledge from meta-analyses and estimate 30- and 90-day mortality rates for sepsis and septic shock separately, stratify rates by region and study type and assess mortality rates across different sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of articles published in PubMed or in the Cochrane Database, between 2009 and 2019 in English language including interventional and observational studies. A meta-analysis of pooled 28/30- and 90-day mortality rated separately for sepsis and septic shock was done using a random-effects model. Time trends were assessed via Joinpoint methodology and for the assessment of mortality rate over different SOFA scores, and linear regression was applied.

Results

Four thousand five hundred records were identified. After title/abstract screening, 783 articles were assessed in full text for eligibility. Of those, 170 studies were included. Average 30-day septic shock mortality was 34.7% (95% CI 32.6–36.9%), and 90-day septic shock mortality was 38.5% (95% CI 35.4–41.5%). Average 30-day sepsis mortality was 24.4% (95% CI 21.5–27.2%), and 90-day sepsis mortality was 32.2% (95% CI 27.0–37.5%). Estimated mortality rates from RCTs were below prospective and retrospective cohort studies. Rates varied between regions, with 30-day septic shock mortality being 33.7% (95% CI 31.5–35.9) in North America, 32.5% (95% CI 31.7–33.3) in Europe and 26.4% (95% CI 18.1–34.6) in Australia. A statistically significant decrease of 30-day septic shock mortality rate was found between 2009 and 2011, but not after 2011. Per 1-point increase of the average SOFA score, average mortality increased by 1.8–3.3%.

Conclusion

Trends of lower sepsis and continuous septic shock mortality rates over time and regional disparities indicate a remaining unmet need for improving sepsis management. Further research is needed to investigate how trends in the burden of disease influence mortality rates in sepsis and septic shock at 30- and 90-day mortality over time.

Paths into Sepsis: Trajectories of Presepsis Healthcare Use

RATIONALE

Sepsis is a leading cause of death and disability whose heterogeneity is often cited as a key impediment to translational progress.

OBJECTIVES

To test the hypothesis that there are consequential and significant differences in sepsis outcomes that result from differences in a patient's clinical course leading up to sepsis hospitalization.

METHODS

We conducted an observational cohort study of U.S. Health and Retirement Study (HRS) participants in Medicare (1998-2012) and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs beneficiaries (2009). Using latent profile analysis, we identified patient subtypes based on trajectory of presepsis healthcare facility use. Subtypes were identified in the derivation cohort (1,512 sepsis hospitalizations among earlier HRS participants), then validated them in two additional cohorts (1,992 sepsis hospitalizations among later HRS participants; 32,525 sepsis hospitalizations among U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs beneficiaries). We measured the association between presepsis path and 90-day mortality using chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

We identified three subtypes: low use of inpatient healthcare facilities, comprising 84% of the derivation cohort; rising use, 12%; and high use, 4%. The shape and distribution of presepsis trajectories were similar in all three cohorts. In the derivation cohort, 90-day mortality differed by presepsis trajectory as follows: 38% (low use), 63% (rising use), and 48% (high use) (P < 0.001). This association persisted in the validation cohorts (P < 0.001 for each). The rising use class remained an independent predictor of mortality after adjustment for potential confounders, including detailed physiologic data.

CONCLUSIONS

In national cohorts of patients with sepsis, we have shown that several distinct paths into sepsis exist. These paths, identified by trajectories of presepsis healthcare use, are predictive of 90-day mortality.

Rate and risk factors for rehospitalisation in sepsis survivors: systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Sepsis survivors have a higher risk of rehospitalisation and of long-term mortality. We assessed the rate, diagnosis, and independent predictors for rehospitalisation in adult sepsis survivors.

METHODS

We searched for non-randomized studies and randomized clinical trials in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EMBASE (OVID interface, 1992-October 2019). The search strategy used controlled vocabulary terms and text words for sepsis and hospital readmission, limited to humans, and English language. Two authors independently selected studies and extracted data using predefined criteria and data extraction forms.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 12,544 records. Among 56 studies (36 full and 20 conference abstracts) that met our inclusion criteria, all were non-randomised studies. Studies most often report 30-day rehospitalisation rate (mean 21.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 17.6-25.4%; N = 36 studies reporting 6,729,617 patients). The mean (95%CI) rehospitalisation rates increased from 9.3% (8.3-10.3%) by 7 days to 39.0% (22.0-59.4%) by 365 days. Infection was the most common rehospitalisation diagnosis. Risk factors that increased the rehospitalisation risk in sepsis survivors were generic characteristics such as older age, male, comorbidities, non-elective admissions, hospitalisation prior to index sepsis admission, and sepsis characteristics such as infection and illness severity, with hospital characteristics showing inconsistent associations. The overall certainty of evidence was moderate for rehospitalisation rates and low for risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Rehospitalisation events are common in sepsis survivors, with one in five rehospitalisation events occurring within 30 days of hospital discharge following an index sepsis admission. The generic and sepsis-specific characteristics at index sepsis admission are commonly reported risk factors for rehospitalisation.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD 42016039257, registered on 14-06-2016.

Sepsis-Associated Encephalopathy: From Delirium to Dementia?

Sepsis is a major cause of death in intensive care units worldwide. The acute phase of sepsis is often accompanied by sepsis-associated encephalopathy, which is highly associated with increased mortality. Moreover, in the chronic phase, more than 50% of surviving patients suffer from severe and long-term cognitive deficits compromising their daily quality of life and placing an immense burden on primary caregivers. Due to a growing number of sepsis survivors, these long-lasting deficits are increasingly relevant. Despite the high incidence and clinical relevance, the pathomechanisms of acute and chronic stages in sepsis-associated encephalopathy are only incompletely understood, and no specific therapeutic options are yet available. Here, we review the emergence of sepsis-associated encephalopathy from initial clinical presentation to long-term cognitive impairment in sepsis survivors and summarize pathomechanisms potentially contributing to the development of sepsis-associated encephalopathy.

Frequency and Cause of Readmissions in Sepsis Patients Presenting to a Tertiary Care Hospital in a Low Middle Income Country

Hospital readmissions are known to be common after sepsis but unfortunately, in a developing country like Pakistan, very little is known of the frequency or cause of these readmissions in sepsis patients and even less about how they can be prevented. To our knowledge, this is the first-ever long-term follow-up study in a developing country in which frequency and cause of readmissions are being evaluated in sepsis patients.

Epidemiology and Predictors of 30-Day Readmission in Patients With Sepsis

BACKGROUND

Patients with sepsis are particularly vulnerable to readmissions. We describe the associated etiology and risk factors for readmission in patients with sepsis using a large administrative database inclusive of patients of all ages and insurance status.

METHODS

Our study cohort was derived from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's National Readmission Data from 2013 to 2014 by identifying patients admitted with sepsis. The primary outcome was 30-day readmission with etiology identified by using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification, codes.

RESULTS

From a total 1,030,335 index admissions; mean age, 66.8 ± 17.4 years (60% age ≥65 years), 898,257 patients (87.2%) survived to discharge. A total of 157,235 (17.5%) patients had a 30-day readmission; median time to readmission was 11 days (interquartile range, 5-19). Infectious etiology (42.16%; including sepsis, 22.86%) was the most commonly associated cause for 30-day readmission followed by gastrointestinal (9.6%), cardiovascular (8.73%), pulmonary (7.82%), and renal causes (4.99%). Significant predictors associated with increased 30-day readmission included diabetes (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.06-1.08; P < .001), chronic kidney disease (1.12;1.10-1.14, P < .001), congestive heart failure (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.14-1.18; P < .001), discharge to short-/long-term facility (OR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.11-1.14; P < .001), Charlson comorbidity index ≥ 2, and length of stay ≥ 3 days during the index admission. The mean cost per readmission was $16,852; annual cost was > $3.5 billion within the United States.

CONCLUSION

We describe that readmission after a sepsis hospitalization is common and costly. The majority of readmissions were associated with infectious etiologies. The striking rate of readmission demands efforts to further clarify the determinants of readmission and develop strategies in terms of quality of care and care transitions to prevent this outcome.

Temporal Trends in Incidence, Sepsis-Related Mortality, and Hospital-Based Acute Care After Sepsis

OBJECTIVES

A growing number of patients survive sepsis hospitalizations each year and are at high risk for readmission. However, little is known about temporal trends in hospital-based acute care (emergency department treat-and-release visits and hospital readmission) after sepsis. Our primary objective was to measure temporal trends in sepsis survivorship and hospital-based acute care use in sepsis survivors. In addition, because readmissions after pneumonia are subject to penalty under the national readmission reduction program, we examined whether readmission rates declined after sepsis hospitalizations related to pneumonia.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Retrospective, observational cohort study conducted within an academic healthcare system from 2010 to 2015.

PATIENTS

We used three validated, claims-based approaches to identify 17,256 sepsis or severe sepsis hospitalizations to examine trends in hospital-based acute care after sepsis.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

From 2010 to 2015, sepsis as a proportion of medical and surgical admissions increased from 3.9% to 9.4%, whereas in-hospital mortality rate for sepsis hospitalizations declined from 24.1% to 14.8%. As a result, the proportion of medical and surgical discharges at-risk for hospital readmission after sepsis increased from 2.7% to 7.8%. Over 6 years, 30-day hospital readmission rates declined modestly, from 26.4% in 2010 to 23.1% in 2015, driven largely by a decline in readmission rates among survivors of nonsevere sepsis, and nonpneumonia sepsis specifically, as the readmission rate of severe sepsis survivors was stable. The modest decline in 30-day readmission rates was offset by an increase in emergency department treat-and-release visits, from 2.8% in 2010 to a peak of 5.4% in 2014.

CONCLUSIONS

Owing to increasing incidence and declining mortality, the number of sepsis survivors at risk for hospital readmission rose significantly between 2010 and 2015. The 30-day hospital readmission rates for sepsis declined modestly but were offset by a rise in emergency department treat-and-release visits.

Template matching for benchmarking hospital performance in the veterans affairs healthcare system

Comparing hospital performance in a health system is traditionally done with multilevel regression models that adjust for differences in hospitals' patient case-mix. In contrast, "template matching" compares outcomes of similar patients at different hospitals but has been used only in limited patient settings.Our objective was to test a basic template matching approach in the nationwide Veterans Affairs healthcare system (VA), compared with a more standard regression approach.We performed various simulations using observational data from VA electronic health records whereby we randomly assigned patients to "pseudo hospitals," eliminating true hospital level effects. We randomly selected a representative template of 240 patients and matched 240 patients on demographic and physiological factors from each pseudo hospital to the template. We varied hospital performance for different simulations such that some pseudo hospitals negatively impacted patient mortality.Electronic health record data of 460,213 hospitalizations at 111 VA hospitals across the United States in 2015.We assessed 30-day mortality at each pseudo hospital and identified lowest quintile hospitals by template matching and regression. The regression model adjusted for predicted 30-day mortality (as a measure of illness severity).Regression identified the lowest quintile hospitals with 100% accuracy compared with 80.3% to 82.0% for template matching when systematic differences in 30-day mortality existed.The current standard practice of risk-adjusted regression incorporating patient-level illness severity was better able to identify lower-performing hospitals than the simplistic template matching algorithm.

Improving Care Transitions for Hospitalized Veterans Discharged to Skilled Nursing Facilities: A Focus on Polypharmacy and Geriatric Syndromes

Geriatric syndromes and polypharmacy are common in older patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and increase 30-day readmission risk. In a U.S.A. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)-funded Quality Improvement study to improve care transitions from the VA hospital to area SNFs, Veterans (N = 134) were assessed for geriatric syndromes using standardized instruments as well as polypharmacy, defined as five or more medications. Warm handoffs were used to facilitate the transfer of this information. This paper describes the prevalence of geriatric syndromes, polypharmacy, and readmission rates. Veterans were prescribed an average of 14.7 medications at hospital discharge. Moreover, 75% of Veterans had more than two geriatric syndromes, some of which began during hospitalization. While this effort did not reduce 30-day readmissions, the high prevalence of geriatric syndromes and polypharmacy suggests that future efforts targeting these issues may be necessary to reduce readmissions among Veterans discharged to SNF.

Factors Underlying Racial Disparities in Sepsis Management

Sepsis, a syndrome characterized by systemic inflammation during infection, continues to be one of the most common causes of patient mortality in hospitals across the United States. While standardized treatment protocols have been implemented, a wide variability in clinical outcomes persists across racial groups. Specifically, black and Hispanic populations are frequently associated with higher rates of morbidity and mortality in sepsis compared to the white population. While this is often attributed to systemic bias against minority groups, a growing body of literature has found patient, community, and hospital-based factors to be driving racial differences. In this article, we provide a focused review on some of the factors driving racial disparities in sepsis. We also suggest potential interventions aimed at reducing health disparities in the prevention, early identification, and clinical management of sepsis.

Preventing Chronic Critical Illness and Rehospitalization: A Focus on Sepsis

An estimated 14 million patients survive sepsis hospitalization each year. However, survivors commonly experience new functional disability, cognitive impairment, and a high rate of further medical setbacks, including hospital readmission and late death. One in 5 older survivors has a potentially preventable hospital admission with in 90 days, most commonly for infection. Treatment should focus on preventing the common sequelae of critical illness during the initial hospitalization, tailoring medical care to minimize the risk for common and potentially preventable causes of hospital readmission, and promoting functional recovery.

Readmissions Among Sepsis Survivors: Risk Factors and Prevention

Hospital readmissions are common and result in increased mortality and cost while reducing quality of life. Readmission rates have been subjected to increasing scrutiny in recent years as part of a larger effort to improve the quality and value of healthcare in the United States. Emerging evidence suggests that sepsis survivors are at high risk for hospital readmission and experience readmission rates comparable to survivors of congestive heart failure, acute myocardial infarction, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diseases whose readmission rates determine reimbursement penalties from the federal government. In this article, we review the unique challenges that sepsis survivors face as well as the patient-level and hospital-level risk factors that are known to be associated with hospital readmission after sepsis survival. Additionally, we identify the causes and outcomes of readmissions in this population before concluding with a discussion of readmission prevention strategies and future directions.

Sample size implications of mortality definitions in sepsis: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Many randomized controlled trials (RCTs) employ mortality at a given time as a primary outcome. There are at least three common ways to measure 90-day mortality: first, all-location mortality, that is, all-cause mortality within 90 days of randomization at any location. Second, ARDSnet mortality is death in a healthcare facility of greater intensity than the patient was in prior to the hospitalization during which they were randomized. Finally, in-hospital mortality is death prior to discharge from the primary hospitalization of randomization. Data comparing the impact of these different measurements on sample size are lacking. We evaluated the extent to which event rates vary by mortality definition.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 30,691 patients hospitalized at Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals for sepsis during 2009. 12,727 (41.5%) received care in an ICU setting. For each patient, we measured event rates for three different 90-day mortality outcomes: all-location mortality, ARDSnet mortality, and in-hospital mortality. We also calculated sample sizes necessary to power an example RCT given those event rates.

Results

At 90 days, all-location mortality was 26.4% (95% CI 25.9–26.9%), ARDSnet mortality was 19.2% (95% CI 18.8–19.7%), and in-hospital mortality was 13.4% (95% CI 13.0–13.8%) (p < 0.01 all comparisons). These respective event rates result in different required sample sizes to achieve a 20% relative reduction in mortality with 80% power and a 5% false positive rate. Such a trial of VA sepsis patients would require 2080 patients for all-location mortality, 3080 for ARDSnet mortality, and 4796 for in-hospital mortality. Among sepsis patients mechanically ventilated in an ICU, 2438 experienced all-location mortality (46.2% [95% CI 44.8–47.5%]), 2181 experienced ARDSnet mortality (41.3% [95% CI 40.0–42.6%]), and 1894 experienced in-hospital mortality (36.0% [95% CI 34.7–37.3%]).

Conclusions

Event rates vary substantially in sepsis patients based on the chosen 90-day mortality definition. This could have important implications for RCT design trade-offs.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-018-2570-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Improving Long-Term Outcomes After Sepsis

Although acute survival from sepsis has improved in recent years, a large fraction of sepsis survivors experience poor long-term outcomes. In particular, sepsis survivors have high rates of weakness, cognitive impairment, hospital readmission, and late death. To improve long-term outcomes, in-hospital care should focus on early, effective treatment of sepsis; minimization of delirium, distress, and immobility; and preparing patients for hospital discharge. In the posthospital setting, medical care should focus on addressing new disability and preventing medical deterioration, providing a sustained period out of the hospital to allow for recovery.

Sepsis-Associated 30-Day Risk-Standardized Readmissions: Analysis of a Nationwide Medicare Sample

OBJECTIVES

To determine national readmission rates among sepsis survivors, variations in rates between hospitals, and determine whether measures of quality correlate with performance on sepsis readmissions.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study of sepsis readmissions between 2008 and 2011 in the Medicare fee-for-service database.

SETTING

Acute care, Medicare participating hospitals from 2008 to 2011.

PATIENTS

Septic patients as identified by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes using the Angus method.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We generated hospital-level, risk-standardized, 30-day readmission rates among survivors of sepsis and compared rates across region, ownership, teaching status, sepsis volume, hospital size, and proportion of underserved patients. We examined the relationship between risk-standardized readmission rates and hospital-level composite measures of quality and mortality. From 633,407 hospitalizations among 3,315 hospitals from 2008 to 2011, median risk-standardized readmission rates was 28.7% (interquartile range, 26.1-31.9). There were differences in risk-standardized readmission rates by region (Northeast, 30.4%; South, 29.6%; Midwest, 28.8%; and West, 27.7%; p < 0.001), teaching versus nonteaching status (31.1% vs 29.0%; p < 0.001), and hospitals serving the highest proportion of underserved patients (30.6% vs 28.7%; p < 0.001). The best performing hospitals on a composite quality measure had highest risk-standardized readmission rates compared with the lowest (32.0% vs 27.5%; p < 0.001). Risk-standardized readmission rates was lower in the highest mortality hospitals compared with those in the lowest (28.7% vs 30.7%; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

One third of sepsis survivors were readmitted and wide variation exists between hospitals. Several demographic and structural factors are associated with this variation. Measures of higher quality in-hospital care were correlated with higher readmission rates. Several potential explanations are possible including poor risk standardization, more research is needed.

Increased healthcare facility use in veterans surviving sepsis hospitalization

PURPOSE

We sought to measure inpatient healthcare utilization among U.S. Veteran Affairs beneficiaries surviving sepsis hospitalization, and to examine how post-sepsis utilization varies by select patient characteristics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of 26,561 Veterans who survived sepsis hospitalization in 2009. Using difference-in-differences analysis, we compared changes in healthcare utilization in one year before and one year after sepsis hospitalization by Veteran age, illness severity, and recent nursing facility use.

RESULTS

Median days in a healthcare facility increased from 5 to 10. Veterans with recent nursing facility use spent a median 65days (or 86% of days alive) in a healthcare facility in the year after sepsis. Older age, greater illness severity, and recent nursing home use were each associated with spending more days, and a greater proportion of days alive, in a healthcare facility during the year after sepsis. However, none of these characteristics was associated with a greater rise in utilization after sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS

Veterans surviving sepsis experience high rates of post-sepsis mortality and significant increases in healthcare facility use. Recent nursing facility use is strongly predictive of greater post-sepsis healthcare utilization.