HCS115-Sepsis Symptoms and Management Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Sepsis Symptoms and Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure early recognition, rapid response, and effective management of sepsis within {{org_field_name}}. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises from the body’s extreme response to an infection, potentially leading to organ failure and death if not treated promptly. {{org_field_name}} is committed to equipping staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to identify, escalate, and manage sepsis cases efficiently in compliance with Care Inspectorate Scotland regulations, NHS Scotland guidelines, and Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Codes of Practice.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, agency staff, volunteers, and healthcare professionals at {{org_field_name}} who provide direct or indirect care to people we support. It covers:

Understanding sepsis, its symptoms, and risk factors.
Identifying early warning signs and acting quickly.
Escalation procedures and emergency response.
Staff training and competency requirements.
Communication with families and healthcare professionals.
Documentation, monitoring, and continuous improvement.

3. Related Policies

Infection Prevention and Control Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Medication Management Policy
Safeguarding Adults and Children Policy
Risk Assessment and Management Policy
Incident Reporting and Investigation Policy

4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

{{org_field_name}} ensures compliance with the following legislation and regulatory standards:

Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland) 2018 – Ensuring high-quality, person-centred care.
Care Inspectorate Scotland Regulations – Providing guidance on sepsis prevention and emergency response.
Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Codes of Practice – Promoting professional standards in health and social care.
NHS Scotland’s National Early Warning Score (NEWS2) – Providing a structured approach to assessing deteriorating health conditions.
The Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 – Ensuring appropriate care for those unable to make medical decisions.
The Public Health etc. (Scotland) Act 2008 – Supporting infection control measures and sepsis awareness.

5. Understanding Sepsis and Risk Factors

5.1. What is Sepsis?

Sepsis occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection, causing widespread inflammation that can lead to organ damage and shock. It can develop from infections such as:

Pneumonia.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Skin infections, including infected wounds or pressure ulcers.
Gastrointestinal infections.

5.2. High-Risk Individuals

People at higher risk of developing sepsis include:

Older adults (65+) and frail individuals.
People with weakened immune systems (e.g., those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients).
Individuals with chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, lung disease, kidney disease).
People with recent surgery, catheter use, or open wounds.
Individuals with cognitive impairments who may not recognise symptoms.

6. Recognising Sepsis Symptoms

6.1. Common Symptoms of Sepsis

Sepsis symptoms can progress rapidly, making early detection critical. The key warning signs include:

S – Slurred speech or confusion.
E – Extreme shivering, fever, or very low temperature.
P – Passing no urine (in a day) or reduced urine output.
S – Severe breathlessness or rapid breathing.
I – It feels like you are going to die.
S – Skin that is mottled, pale, or has a rash that doesn’t fade under pressure.

7. Escalation Procedures and Emergency Response

7.1. Immediate Actions

If sepsis is suspected, staff must act quickly and follow these steps:

Call 999 or 112 immediately and inform them that sepsis is suspected.
Stay with the person, keeping them warm and reassured.
Monitor their breathing, consciousness level, and response.
Record vital signs if trained to do so, including temperature, pulse, and blood pressure.
Ensure the person is in a safe and comfortable position while awaiting emergency responders.

7.2. Notifying Key Contacts

Inform the NHS 24 service (111) for urgent medical advice if the person’s condition is concerning but does not yet require emergency intervention.
Notify family members or legal representatives immediately.
Escalate concerns to a district nurse, GP, or other healthcare professionals.

8. Infection Prevention to Reduce Sepsis Risk

8.1. Best Practices in Infection Control

Ensure proper hand hygiene for staff and people we support.
Adhere to aseptic techniques when handling wounds, catheters, or medical equipment.
Monitor for early signs of infection in wounds, urinary catheters, or surgical sites.
Promote good hydration and nutrition to support immune function.
Follow antibiotic stewardship guidelines to prevent antibiotic resistance.

9. Staff Training and Competency

9.1. Training Requirements

All staff must receive:

Mandatory sepsis awareness training during induction.
Annual refresher courses on identifying and responding to sepsis.
Training on early warning tools such as NEWS2 to assess deteriorating health conditions.
Scenario-based drills to practice emergency response for sepsis cases.

9.2. Competency Assessments

Staff will undergo regular competency checks to ensure they can recognise and escalate sepsis cases effectively.
Any knowledge gaps will be addressed through targeted refresher training.

10. Documentation and Continuous Improvement

10.1. Recording and Reporting Sepsis Cases

All suspected and confirmed sepsis cases must be documented in the person’s care records.
Incident reports must be completed and reviewed to evaluate response effectiveness.
Follow-up checks will be conducted to support individuals recovering from sepsis.

10.2. Learning from Sepsis Cases

Root cause analysis will be conducted for serious incidents to identify areas for improvement.
Lessons learned will be shared in staff meetings and training sessions.
Policy updates will be made where necessary to incorporate new best practices.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if required due to legislative updates, Care Inspectorate feedback, or operational needs. Any amendments will be communicated to all staff.

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.