Sepsis is our number one quality priority: Day 27 of our campaign

November 27, 2018

Sepsis message from GPs:

Recognising sepsis especially at an early stage represents a big challenge to GPs as we see a huge number of ordinary infections that present similarly on a daily basis. However it is important that we identify some of the key signs and symptoms which suggest sepsis, as early diagnosis is key to saving lives.

We don’t readily have access to immediate laboratory services and so it is essential we understand and refer to sepsis toolkits (such as the RCGP one) aimed at GPs and other front line health professionals to help assess patients we see in the community presenting with acute infection.

The key signs to look out for and acting immediately are:

• Systolic blood pressure less than 90 mmHg (or great than 40 mmHg fall from baseline)
• Heart rate greater than 130 per minute
• Oxygen saturations less than 91 per cent
• Respiratory rate greater than 25 per minute
• Responds only to voice or pain/unresponsive