When is antibiotic treatment recommended for sepsis?

Sepsis is the body’s harmful response to an infection and can affect breathing, blood pressure, alertness and organ function. Because the source may be in the lungs, urine, abdomen, skin or elsewhere, clinicians assess the whole person rather than relying on one symptom. When a bacterial infection is possible, antibiotics are started promptly while tests help identify the source and guide treatment. Other care may include fluids, oxygen, monitoring and procedures to control the infection. Antibiotics are not a substitute for emergency assessment.

If sepsis is suspected, call emergency services or go to an emergency department immediately. Tell the team about recent infections, operations, wounds, medicines, allergies and any immune or long-term health condition. Do not delay to wait for a home test or to see whether symptoms settle. In hospital, provide a clear medication list and report changes in confusion, breathing, urine output, skin colour or pain. Take antibiotics only when prescribed; never use leftover tablets for a new illness.

Get emergency help for new confusion, severe breathlessness, fainting, cold or mottled skin, very little urine, a rapidly worsening infection, or a person who is difficult to wake. Fever is not required for sepsis, and an older adult, infant, pregnant person or someone with reduced immunity may become seriously ill without a high temperature. Trust a clear deterioration and seek help immediately.

Ask what infection is suspected, when antibiotics should start, which tests may identify the source, how treatment will be adjusted, and which changes require immediate escalation after discharge.