A new initiative to halt sepsis, a life-threatening infection, is being rolled out across wards, including Chirk Community Hospital.

New ‘one-use’ medical boxes, which hold everything needed to quickly deliver crucial treatment for the condition, are being introduced by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB).

All wards at Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor currently have sepsis boxes, which are designed like an advent calendar and allow staff fast access to vital equipment, with step-by-step instructions.

They will now be made available to staff at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, and also Wrexham Maelor Hospital, and also be placed on other hospital wards, including those in Chirk, Ruthin, Denbigh, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Dolgellau.

The boxes contain all of the resources needed to deliver the six critical steps for swift sepsis treatment and include an oxygen mask, fluid balance chart and specimen bottles, drips and fluid.

Sepsis is a life-threatening complication of an infection, which without early treatment can lead to shock, multiple organ failure and even death. It can be triggered by an infection in any part of the body but most commonly in the lungs, urinary tract, abdomen and pelvis.

Gill Harris, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery, said: “We’re working extremely hard to ensure our workforce has the best training, resources and equipment possible to deliver the highest quality care to our patients. 

“This simple box is a life-saving addition to our wards and will ensure our nursing staff and clinicians are given the very best opportunity to reduce the threat of sepsis as quickly as possible.

“Sepsis is a real time critical condition where every second counts. Having everything in one place will save time and hopefully lives,” continued Gill.

Tracy Savijn, Rapid Response to Acute Illness service improvement and development manager for BCUHB, said: “Treatment for sepsis is time sensitive. The quicker we treat, the increased chances of success.

“We’re working hard to raise awareness around the issue, and these packs will help staff identify when a patient’s condition is deteriorating and deliver the right treatment to the right patient at the right time,” added Tracy.