The browser you are using is no longer supported. Please switch to Edge or Chrome
This website is now closed and information may be out of date.
The new Royal Cornwall Website can be found at www.royalcornwallhospitals.nhs.uk.
Please note: This website will remain in place while being archived but information may no longer be accurate.
Sepsis
This page was last updated: February 22nd, 2022
Sepsis is a life threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs. Sepsis leads to shock, multiple organ failure and death especially if not recognised early and treated promptly.
It is highly likely that, across the UK, sepsis claims at least 46,000 lives every year, and it may be as high as 67,000. Risk factors for sepsis should always prompt a high suspicion of sepsis. Early intervention has been shown to save lives and reduce length of stay in hospital and the need for Critical Care admission.
Here at RCHT we promote early recognition and treatment of Sepsis. Patients are screened through our E-observation system at admission and throughout their stay.
To get in touch please email rcht.sepsis@nhs.net.
Signs of Sepsis
What to look out for in adults
Think SEPSIS:
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Extreme shivering or muscle pain
- Passing no urine (in a day)
- Severe breathlessness
- It feels like you’re going to die
- Skin mottled or discoloured
What to look out for in a child
- Is breathing very fast
- Has a ‘fit’ or convulsion
- Looks mottled, bluish, or pale
- Has a rash that does not fade when you press it
- Is very lethargic or difficult to wake
- Feels abnormally cold to touch
If you see any of these signs call 999 or go to A&E and ask: “Could it be Sepsis?”
A Child under 5 may have Sepsis if they:
- Are not feeding
- Are vomiting repeatedly
- Have not passed urine for 12 hours
If you spot any of these signs, call 111 or see your GP and just ask: “could it be sepsis?”
UK Sepsis Trust awareness video: Get Sepsis Savvy – UK Sepsis Trust
