New kit fights life-threatening infection | Our news

Newham Hospital is now kitted out with life-saving equipment to treat people with the serious infection Sepsis. 

Sepsis, the leading cause of death from infection around the world, is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs.

With fast treatment vital to survival, 16 new trolleys have been rolled out to wards at Newham Hospital to ensure that staff have everything to hand to fight the condition.

The trolleys contain everything needed for patients with suspected sepsis to have a range of vital treatments.

Dr Rory McDermott, Sepsis Lead at Newham Hospital, said: "We want to make sure we promptly assess and treat patients with suspected sepsis.

"Our evidence shows that not enough of our patients get antibiotics quickly enough and we want to put that right.

"This is a big step forward for caring for deteriorating patients."

Sepsis
There is no one sign of sepsis. To start with it can be like having flu. Seek medical help urgently if you develop any of:

  *   Slurred speech or confusion

  *   Extreme shivering or muscle pain

  *   Passing no urine all day

  *   Severe breathlessness

  *   It feels like you’re going to die

  *   Skin mottle or discoloured