Advice for Parents and Carers
If your child has any of the following:
Go to the nearest Hospital Emergency (A&E) Department or phone 999
If your child has any of the following:
Please ring your GP surgery or contact NHS 111 - dial 111 or for children aged 5 years and above visit 111.nhs.uk
If your child:
Continue providing your child’s care at home. If you are still concerned about your child, contact NHS 111 – dial 111 or for children aged 5 years and above visit 111.nhs.uk
What do I do if I am worried my child has sepsis?
Remember most children with fevers or who are unwell, don’t have sepsis
Tests
There is no one test to see if your child has sepsis. The tests to look for the infection will vary depending on their age, symptoms and medical history. They can include blood tests, urine tests, chest X-rays and occasionally lumbar puncture (needle in the back to collect spinal fluid)
Your healthcare team should talk to you about any tests or procedures they would like to do, what will happen and what they are for
Remember
If you're worried that your child or baby is not getting better, still seems unwell or is not themselves, you should talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional. It is important to ask for advice if you're worried, even if you have already seen a doctor, are still having treatment, or are back home. This is because the problems caused by sepsis can come on very quickly, and you may need more (or different) treatment. You should always feel that you can ask questions at any point in your care.
Symptoms of sepsis - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Sepsis: what to look out for and what care you should expect (nice.org.uk)
LEFT: Painless enlarged lymph nodes on both sides of the neck (bilateral) associated with a sore throat - likely to improve without treatment.
RIGHT: Painful, hot swelling on left side of neck caused by an infected lymph node - requires treatment with antibiotics