Plastic Surgery Nursing
Date of issue: Feb 2026
Review date: Feb 2028
This information has been developed to supplement the information the doctor or healthcare practitioner has already given you.
If the review date has passed, the content will apply until the next version is published.
What is Toxic Shock Syndrome
Bacteria can cause a rare but serious life threatening condition called Toxic Shock Syndrome. These bacteria live on the skin and in the mouth or nose usually without problems, but if they cause infection, they can produce toxic agents (toxins) which can damage tissues and organs. This damage can lead to severe problems, like kidney and liver failure.
Toxic shock-causing bacteria can get into the body because the skin has been damaged by a burn or wound. Even a small burn or wound can cause Toxic Shock Syndrome. It can start suddenly and get worse quickly.
People with reduced immunity are at more risk. There is a particular risk in older adults or those who are immunocompromised. Until the burn is healed, there is a risk of infection and Toxic Shock Syndrome.
Symptoms to look out for in a burned patient
We strongly advise you to keep a working thermometer to accurately record your temperature. Here are the signs and symptoms to watch for:
- Fever – a temperature of 38°C or higher.
- Flu-like symptoms – headache, shivering, aching body, a sore throat and a cough.
- Feeling sick, being sick, or off food/loss of appetite.
- Diarrhoea or loose stools.
- Rash or redness like sunburn often across the trunk or abdomen, or around the burn.
- Eating or drinking less than normal.
- Not passing urine as much as normal or expected.
- Dizziness, fainting, and difficulty waking/keeping awake.
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing when resting.
- Unwell, confused, “out of sorts”, “not themselves”, or irritable.
What to do if you suspect Toxic Shock Syndrome?
Toxic Shock Syndrome is a medical emergency – DO NOT ignore any symptoms! Even though these symptoms could be due to many conditions, it is important to seek medical advice if there are any worries.
Please call or attend the nearest medical service or emergency department if you have any symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome. Alternatively, call NHS 24 on 111, where you will be given advice on what to do.
Call 999 immediately if you or a family member develops a blotchy purple mottled appearance, is drowsy, has multiple symptoms or any difficulty breathing.
Investigation and treatment
If you have suspected Toxic Shock Syndrome, you may need to be admitted to hospital for investigations and specialist care. These will include:
- Blood tests.
- Tests for infection.
- Antibiotics and other medicines (intravenously – through the veins, and orally).
- Intravenous fluids (through the veins).
- Cleaning/treatment of the burns – sometimes in the operating theatre.
Contact numbers
Out-of-hours, please contact NHS 24 on 111.
Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy Accident and Emergency
Telephone: 01592 643355
Ninewell’s Hospital, Dundee Accident and Emergency
Telephone: 01382 660111
Plastic Surgery Nursing Team
Queen Margaret Hospital
Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm
01383 623623 extension 25757
Alternatively, contact your own GP or, if you are out-of-hours, please contact NHS 24 on 111.
If you would like to share your experience, you can fill out our survey form or provide feedback at careopinion.org.uk.
Accessible formats
If you require this information in a community language or alternative format such as Braille, audio, large print, BSL, or Easy Read, please contact the Equality and Human Rights Team at: email: fife.EqualityandHumanRights@nhs.scot or phone 01592 729130. For people with a hearing or verbal impairment you can also contact the team through the NHS Fife SMS text service number on 07805800005.
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