Imagine being in the hospital, recovering from surgery or illness, only to contract an infection that could have been avoided. This happens to thousands of patients every year. Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are a serious threat to patient safety, and medical malpractice can significantly contribute to their spread.
Common types of HAIs
Some of the most common HAIs include surgical site infections, bloodstream infections and urinary tract infections. These infections can happen when bacteria or other microorganisms get into the body through contaminated medical equipment, unsterilized medical instruments or unclean hands of healthcare workers. Once acquired, they can lead to severe health complications, resulting in prolonged hospital stays, disability or even death.
The role of medical malpractice
Medical mistakes can cause and spread HAIs. When healthcare workers fail to follow proper infection control protocols, they put patients at risk. This can include failure to wash hands, inadequate sterilization and disinfection of equipment, improper use of antibiotics and delayed or insufficient diagnosis and treatment of infections.
Protecting yourself
To reduce your risk of developing a HAI, ask about the hospital’s infection rates and how they prevent infections. This information can help you make smart choices about your care and hold healthcare providers accountable. Do not be afraid to speak up if you have concerns about infection control. By advocating for yourself or a loved one, you can reduce the risk of developing a HAI.
Taking back control of your health
The thought of getting a HAI can be frightening, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and get the best care possible. Remember, patient safety is a collaborative effort between healthcare workers and patients.
If you think you or a loved one got a hospital infection due to medical mistakes, do not hesitate to reach out to a personal injury attorney. They can guide you through the complex process of seeking justice and compensation. You deserve a safe and healthy recovery.
