First Aid Blog
Knowing what to do in a medical emergency can be a life saver. With this in mind, each month our senior trainer, Patrick Steer, will be writing a short first aid article on a selected subject. Although not every article will have life saving advice, they will never the less be informative, helpful and useful to know. Whilst the information in each article is correct at the time of publication, readers should note that first aid advice and procedures can and often do change. This month's topic is Sepsis.
August, 2019
Sepsis, also referred to as blood poisoning or septicaemia, is a condition which kills approximately 44,000 people per year in the UK; more than Bowel, Breast and Prostate Cancer combined. Still, many people have no idea what it is or how to recognise it. Sepsis is the body’s reaction to infection ‐ times 1,000! The natural immune system goes into overdrive, and begins to attack the body itself. Left untreated, it can lead to multiple organ failure, amputations, even death. Sepsis can develop from almost any infection, including UTIs, bites, cuts, stings, and chest infections, to name a few.
What to look for
• Slurred speech and confusion.
• Extreme shaking and painful muscles.
• Passing no urine in a day.
• Severe breathlessness.
• I feel like I might die.
• Skin mottled or discoloured.
What to do
• If you think someone may be suffering from Sepsis, call 112.
• Then call FAST on 968 970 626.