Spotting the signs of sepsis - guide for homecare workers

Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to infection that can strike anyone, at any time. But, if spotted early, it’s often treatable: awareness saves lives. Everyone, including domiciliary care workers, can play their part in the fight against sepsis by taking five minutes to learn the signs and symptoms.

Here, we look at what sepsis is, who it can affect, and what to do if you suspect sepsis.

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs, with the immune system going into overdrive. It can lead to shock, multiple organ failure and even death if not recognised and treated promptly.

The numbers are staggering – 245,000 people are affected by sepsis in the UK each year, with at least 48,000 people losing their lives to sepsis-related illnesses annually. That’s 5 lives every hour: more than breast, bowel, and prostate cancer combined.

Crucially, sepsis is indiscriminate: while it primarily affects very young and older adults and those with underlying health conditions, it can also be triggered in those who are otherwise fit and healthy. But, if spotted early, it’s often treatable.

The UK Sepsis Trust (UKST), founded by Dr Ron Daniels BEM in 2012, has a clear mission: to end preventable deaths from sepsis and improve outcomes for survivors. They do this by raising public awareness levels, educating healthcare professionals, instigating political change, and providing free support to those affected by this devastating condition.

Sepsis always starts with an infection, and can be caused by any infection. This includes, but is not limited to:

•    A chest infection
•    A UTI
•    A problem in the abdomen, such as a burst ulcer or a hole in the bowel
•    An infected cut or bite
•    A wound from trauma or surgery
•    A leg ulcer or cellulitis

With sepsis, every minute counts, so being able to spot the signs is crucial for everyone. You should seek medical help urgently if the person you are caring for develops any of these signs:
 
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

Please note, the signs of sepsis in children and children under five are slightly different. You can
find them on UKST’s website here.

Sepsis is indiscriminate, but some people are more likely to get sepsis, meaning it’s helpful for domiciliary careworkers to know if those they are caring for are more at risk.

Be more alert if those you’re caring for:

• Are very young or very old
• Are diabetic
• Are on long-term steroids or on drugs to treat cancer or other conditions
• Have had an organ transplant and are on anti-rejection drugs
• Are malnourished (their body hasn’t had enough food)
• Have serious liver disease
• Have a serious illness which affects their immune system (the way the body protects itself from infection), such as leukemia
• Have an infection or a complication after an operation
• Are pregnant or have just given birth

What to do if you suspect sepsis

If you or another adult develops any of the sepsis symptoms, call 999 or visit A&E and Just Ask: Could it be Sepsis?

If you are unwell but feel unsure, UKST has recently launched a Sepsis Assessment Tool . By answering a few simple questions, the tool uses smart technology to help you understand whether you or someone else may be at risk of sepsis.

It’s clear and simple to use, requires no medical knowledge to use, and advises you on what
action to take, depending on symptoms. The tool is easily found across the UK Sepsis Trust’s website.

You can also learn more about it here.

And if you need support, resources or more information, you can find it on UKST's website at
www.sepsistrust.org, phone them on 0800 389 6255 or email at [email protected].

You can also download the symptoms poster.
 

The Homecare Association would like to thank the UK Sepsis Trust for this guide.

Updated 4 November 2025