Sepsis, a silent killer, is considered a medical emergency. It is the leading treatable cause of mortality globally projected to claim more than 6 million people worldwide (Burrell et al., 2016; Lester et al., 2018).

It is time critical to promptly recognise the warning signs of sepsis and respond appropriately to achieve improved patient outcome.

The aim of this module is to help improve awareness relating to the early recognition and treatment of sepsis, to reduce patient harm and improve safety.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this CPD module, you should be able to:

• identify the early signs and symptoms of sepsis
• initiate timely and appropriate interventions
• reflect upon critical thinking and decision making skills in relation to the care and management of the patient with sepsis
• demonstrate knowledge of the latest guidelines and principles underpinning a supportive care approach to sepsis.