Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body's response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs. Sepsis can lead to shock, multiple organ failure and death, especially if not recognised early and treated promptly.
NICE have released updated guidance on Sepsis (NG51) - and we have updated our policy to reflect the changes.
This guidance includes recommendations on recognition and early assessment, initial treatment, escalating care, finding, and controlling the source of infection, early monitoring, information and support and training and education.
In response we have updated the Sepsis Policy. Section 5 within the policy reflects the new guideline. We are also updating CHFT essential training packages for doctors, clinicians, and nurses.
Key messages
- Patients with a NEWS2 score of 7 or above with sepsis or suspected sepsis should receive intravenous antibiotics within 60 minutes.
- Patients with a NEWS2 score of 5 or 6 should receive intravenous antibiotics within three hours. This allows more time to investigate the source of infection.
- All elements of the sepsis 6 (BUFALO) must be completed within one hour for patients with a NEWS2 score of 7 or above.
- Remember, a blood culture test is required prior to the administration of the first dose of antibiotic for patients with sepsis or suspected sepsis, even if the patient is apyrexial. We require an 8-10 ml fill rate in each bottle. The volume of blood sampled is closely related to the chance of obtaining a positive blood culture.
Contacts
For more information, please contact Dr Rob Moisey Acute Medical consultant and Sepsis Collaborative lead, or Lead Nurse- Sepsis, Paula McDonagh through the switchboard or via email.