Management of constipation and recognition of sepsis

Management of constipation

Constipation can be dangerous for people with a learning disability. Some people with a learning disability are more at risk of constipation than the general population. Reviews into the deaths of people with a learning disability have shown that too many people are still dying from constipation.

LeDeR stands for learning from lives and deaths – people with a learning disability and autistic people. LeDeR has guidance and standards in constipation care, along with constipation resources that may be of use to health and care professionals supporting people with a learning disability or people who are autistic with their health or care.

Recognition of sepsis

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can be hard to spot.

The UK Sepsis Trust (UKST) aims to end preventable deaths and improve outcomes for sepsis survivors, striving to raise public awareness and working to support anyone affected by this devastating condition.

NHS England is working to improve the identification, diagnosis and management of sepsis. Also available is a general guide that anyone can use about what sepsis is, the signs to look for, who is at risk, and how it can be treated.

The Royal College of Nursing library provides a subject guide with resources about recognising and caring for adults with presumed sepsis, including books, reports and journal articles.

Clinical knowledge summaries (CKS) provide primary care practitioners with a readily accessible summary of the current evidence base and practical advice on best practice. The clinical knowledge summary about sepsis is available from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).