In our last blog post, we reviewed hospital-acquired infections (HAI).
HAI are infections that develop over the course of a stay in a medical facility and are unrelated with the condition for which the patient was admitted or diagnosed. The sanitation procedures and the hygienic practices that are required of a hospital staff play a principal role in whether a patient will catch an HAI. While you were in the healthcare facility, did you notice safe hygienic and sanitation practices such as management of waste, washing hands, wearing gloves, and disposing of needles/soiled materials properly? The most vital factors are the hospital’s environment, cleanliness and the practices of the staff.
Keep in mind these risks associated with contracting HAI:
A poor state of health is a risk factor because of an impaired immune defense system in the patient.
Surgeries as well as devices that enter the body increase the risk of contracting HAI because they breach the body’s skin defense.
Certain treatments can suppress the immune system.
Blood transfusions can also increase risk because infections can penetrate into the blood through needles.
Be careful of sepsis, which is a dangerous infection-causing whole-body inflammation.
Age is also a factor and can be a risk.
Essentially any patient is in danger but being vigilant, aware of your environment, and conscious those attending you may help.
The more you know, the more you can equip yourself and be as safe as possible.
There is always risk associated with the treatment of an illness or injury, but infection is one of the most easily prevented dangers. If you or a loved one have become increasingly sick during a hospital stay and are victims of a hospital-acquired infection or sepsis, please contact our office and speak with a member of the firm. We are here to help. There is an applicable statute of limitations for all malpractice cases, and timing is critical. Contact us ASAP for your free, no obligation, and confidential legal consultation.