Doha, Qatar: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has reinforced its commitment to patient safety by implementing comprehensive measures to reduce the risk of sepsis across all its hospitals. Sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s severe response to infection, remains a leading cause of preventable harm worldwide. HMC is working to change that through system-wide initiatives focused on prevention, early detection, rapid treatment, and continuous improvement.
Dr. Khalid Mohammed Al Jalham, Chief Medical Officer, highlighted HMC’s structured sepsis program: “At HMC, we have established sepsis champions in every unit, embedded the internationally recognized Sepsis-6 bundle into clinical workflows, and deployed enhanced electronic alerts. We also monitor performance through unit-level dashboards and provide interprofessional training at the Hamad International Training Center. These steps ensure faster recognition and treatment, improving outcomes for our patients.”
Dr. Khalid Mohammed Al Jalham, Chief Medical Officer
As part of this structured program, HMC also participates annually in World Sepsis Day on September 13 and contributes to the Qatar National Sepsis Symposium, which brings together experts from across the health system to share knowledge and best practices
Chief Nursing Officer Mariam Nooh Al Mutawa emphasized the role of frontline nurses: “Our nurses are often the first to identify sepsis symptoms. Through dedicated training and strict compliance with the Sepsis-6 bundle, nurses play a vital role in preventing deterioration and safeguarding patients. Evidence shows that nurse-led interventions directly improve survival and our nursing teams are leading this effort across all hospitals.”
Chief Nursing Officer Mariam Nooh Al Mutawa
Symptoms of sepsis can include sudden changes in mental status, fast and shallow breathing, unexplained sweating, feeling lightheaded, and shivering. These warning signs may indicate the body’s severe response to infection. Sepsis can lead to shock, multi-organ failure and death, especially if not recognized early and treated promptly, so seeking medical care quickly is essential if symptoms are detected.
Sepsis risk can be reduced by practicing good hygiene such as regular handwashing, keeping wounds clean and covered, staying up to date with recommended vaccines, and managing chronic conditions with routine care.
Dr. Abdulsalam Saif, HMC Sepsis Lead
Dr. Abdulsalam Saif, HMC Sepsis Lead, noted progress achieved through automation and collaboration: “Automated data collection, electronic medical record order sets, and stronger documentation have improved the consistency of care. By focusing on high-risk groups and embedding sepsis champions across all facilities, we are making hospitals safer for every patient. HMC’s membership in the Worldwide Sepsis Alliance ensures our programs are aligned with global best practices, reinforcing our position at the forefront of the fight against sepsis.”
Through prevention protocols, early recognition systems, frontline nursing leadership, public awareness initiatives, research and quality improvement, HMC is ensuring that patients in Qatar receive the safest and most effective management of sepsis.
