Sepsis Recognition

Life threatening organ dysfunction from infection

Step by Step

Think sepsis when someone with an infection develops any of: slurred speech or confusion, extreme shivering or muscle pain, passing no urine in a day, severe breathlessness, mottled or discolored skin, or feeling that they might die. Fever may be high, or temperature may be low. Sepsis can follow infections of the chest, urine, skin, or abdomen and can worsen quickly. Call emergency services if these signs are present and say you are worried about sepsis. In children, signs can include fast breathing, a rash that does not fade under a glass, being very drowsy or floppy, or having cold, pale, or mottled skin. People who have had sepsis may need follow up for ongoing fatigue and other effects.