Recognising and responding to suspected sepsis in primary care: a guide for practice nurses

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body's dysregulated response to infection and remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the UK. Early recognition and prompt escalation are essential to improving patient outcomes. Nurses working in primary care frequently encounter patients presenting with infection or non-specific symptoms that may indicate potential clinical deterioration. This article provides an overview of what practice nurses need to know about recognising possible sepsis in primary care settings, including common symptoms, red flag indicators and risk factors associated with severe illness. It also outlines practical steps that clinicians should take when sepsis is suspected, including escalation and safety-netting advice. Recent updates to national guidance are discussed, including the increased emphasis on recognising vulnerable patient groups and identifying deterioration early. By improving awareness of sepsis recognition in primary care, general practice nurses can play an important role in supporting timely assessment and treatment.