What is Sepsis?

Sepsis was previously known as Septicaemia or blood poisoning. Sepsis is the immune system’s overreaction to an infection or injury. Normally our immune system fights infection, but for reasons unclear, it attacks our body’s own organs and tissues. If not treated quickly, Sepsis can result in organ dysfunction and failure. Yet with early diagnosis, it can be treated with antibiotics.

Why does Sepsis happen?

The condition is caused in response to bacteria entering your body. The infection may be in a particular area or widespread. It may be caused by a:

  • chest infection.
  •  urine infection.
  • problem in your bowel or stomach.
  • wound such as a cut or bite.

Minor infections are very common. The majority can be treated without visiting the hospital. However, some infections develop into Sepsis and as a result hospital treatment will be required.

Who is at risk of Sepsis?

All people are at risk of developing Sepsis. Even those in good health with no chronic illnesses. However, you may be more at risk if you are:

  • very young or elderly.
  • suffering from long-term conditions such as diabetes, COPD and heart disease.
  • immunosuppressed (e.g. on long-term steroids, chemotherapy)
  • pregnant or have just given birth.
What does Sepsis do to your body?

Sepsis can initially look like flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection. There is no one sign, and symptoms present differently between adults and children. Other symptoms include:

  • Slurred speech or confusion
  • Extreme shivering or muscle pain
  • Passing no urine (in a day)
  • Severe breathlessness and rapid heartrate
  • It feels like you are going to die
  • Skin mottled or discoloured
Where will I be treated for Sepsis?

If Sepsis is the primary reason for your admission, you are likely to be treated in A&E or an assessment ward. If Sepsis develops whilst you are already in hospital you will be treated on the ward. If your condition deteriorates you may be treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

What investigations may I have?

You will have a variety of different blood tests including blood cultures. These help to identify the bacteria and assist with antibiotic choice. Vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturations, respiratory rate and temperature will be monitored.

Samples of urine/sputum/stools may also help to identify the source of infection. You may also have X-rays such as chest or abdomen.

You may also require interventions such as:

  • insertion of a cannula (to enable administration of intravenous fluids and antibiotics
  • insertion of a urinary catheter to monitor your urine output
What medications will I receive?

Everybody reacts differently to Sepsis but below is a list of treatment you may require:

  • intravenous antibiotics
  • intravenous fluids
  • oxygen via a mask or tube through the nose
  • pain relief

At any time throughout your treatment, the clinical team can be asked to explain what is going on.

How long will I be in hospital?

Depending on the severity of your condition, the length of stay is variable. Some patients can be very unwell for quite some time, requiring a number of investigations and treatment.

Some patients respond quickly to treatment which may lead to a rapid recovery resulting in a shorter hospital stay.

Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of clinical staff not everybody survives Sepsis, therefore End of Life care and organ donation may be discussed with yourself/relatives/carers.

Post Sepsis recovery.

Post Sepsis recovery can have challenges, especially if you have been left with long-term problems related to your underlying condition. Some people who spend time in an intensive care unit develop problems like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You can be left with post sepsis syndrome and develop physical and/or psychological long-term effects.

These effects include, although are not exhaustive:

  • insomnia, difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep
  • nightmares, vivid hallucinations and panic attacks
  • disabling muscle and joint pains
  • extreme fatigue
  • poor concentration
  • decreased mental (cognitive) functioning
  • anxiety
  • loss of self-belief and self-esteem

There is no specific treatment for Post Sepsis Syndrome, but most people will get better with time. It is about managing the individual problems and looking after yourself while you are recovering.

If you are struggling, you can contact the UK Sepsis Trust for support and advice 24/7

Website: www.sepsistrust.org

Phone: 0808 389 6255

Email: info@sepsistrust.org.uk

Discharge information

You may be discharged with antibiotics and other medications that the doctor has prescribed to you. These will be discussed prior to discharge by the nurse or pharmacist.

You will be sent home with a discharge summary and your GP will also receive a copy. This will tell your GP why you were in hospital and what you were treated for. You may be asked to attend a hospital clinic or GP for follow –up. 

What should I do if I feel unwell again?
  • You should see your GP if you feel you do not improve once discharged.
  • If you feel you cannot wait for a GP appointment you should call NHS 111 for advice.
  • If you feel too unwell for the above you should go directly to A&E or call 999.
  • Some survivors find that their immune system is not as effective following their recovery from Sepsis. As a result, you may get recurring infections and are at risk of developing Sepsis again.
Always make sure you and those close to you, know the signs of sepsis and seek urgent medical attention if at all concerned.
Sepsis facts
  • 40% of people who develop Sepsis are estimated to suffer physical, cognitive, and/or psychological after effects
  • Sepsis kills 5 people every hour in the UK
  • It is estimated that 48,000 people die each year in the UK from Sepsis
  • Pneumonia is the most common cause of Sepsis

Confidentiality

‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.

For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302