We use cookies to help provide you with the best possible online experience. Please read our updated Privacy Policy and Terms of Use for information about which cookies we use and what information we collect on our site. By continuing to use this site, you agree that we may store and access cookies on your device.
This page is intended only for healthcare professionals. By accessing this page, you confirm that you are a
member of the medical/dental/pharmacy/nursing professions and/or any other person who, in the course of
employment and delivery of patient care, may prescribe, recommend, purchase, administer, supply (or influence
the supply) of medicines.
Community pharmacies are often the first point of contact for patients seeking healthcare advice, making them uniquely positioned to influence health outcomes and improve the patient experience. Engaging with patient groups—whether those with chronic conditions, specific health needs, or those representing underserved populations—is essential to providing more personalised, comprehensive care. When pharmacies actively collaborate with patient groups, they can better understand the challenges these individuals face, tailor their services, and advocate for their specific health concerns. By fostering open communication, community pharmacies can empower patients to take an active role in their healthcare, increase medication adherence, and enhance overall well-being.
As part of this activity, we have worked in partnership with UK Sepsis Trust (Please note: By clicking on the link, you are leaving The NPA website. Links to external websites are provided as a resource to the viewer) to highlight the vital role community pharmacy plays in supporting sepsis awareness, as early recognition and prompt treatment of this life-threatening condition can significantly improve survival rates. Community pharmacies, as accessible healthcare hubs, are uniquely positioned to educate the public about the signs, symptoms, and risks of sepsis. Below you will find links to useful resources to help you raise awareness in your pharmacy, as well as a great insight into the work of Ron Daniels and his team at UK Sepsis Trust, highlighting the important role of community pharmacy. A well-informed community is crucial in reducing the impact of UK Sepsis Trust and ensuring faster intervention, ultimately saving lives.
Access training modules below:
Why sepsis?
Interview with Ron Daniels
UK Sepsis Trust Posters
Additional training & resources
Why Sepsis?
What is Sepsis?1
Sepsis, also know as blood poisoning, is the reaction to an infection in which the body attacks its own organs and tissues.
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition, however it can be easily treated if caught early. Symptoms of sepsis will present differently between adults and children.
How do I spot Sepsis?1
Sepsis could occur as the result of any infection. There is no one sign for sepsis.
Sepsis is a serious condition that can initially look like flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection. Patients should be referred for urgent medical advice if you observe any of the following symptoms:
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
Sepsis in Children1
If a child presents who is unwell with either a fever or very low temperature (or has had a fever in the last 24 hours) just ask “could it be sepsis?”.
Any child who:
is breathing very fast
has a ‘fit’ or convulsion
looks mottled, bluish or pale
has a rash that does not fade when you press it
is very lethargic or difficult to wake
feels abnormally cold to touch
might have sepsis. Just ask “could it be sepsis?” and refer to the appropriate healthcare professional
Any child under 5 who:
is not feeding
is vomiting repeatedly
hasn’t had a wee or wet nappy for 12 hours
might have sepsis. If you’re worried they’re deteriorating call 111 or refer them to the appropriate healthcare professional.