If you contracted an infection while hospitalized, it may have not have been preventable. However, it is not uncommon for infections to occur due to medical negligence. And when that happens, hospitals and staff may tell you that it is just something that happens, not their fault.
If your infection was a result of medical negligence, you may be able to recover compensation for the harm caused through a medical malpractice lawsuit. An experienced medical malpractice attorney can help you determine whether you have been a victim of medical negligence and if you have a case.
Infections Involving Catheters, Ventilators and Central Lines
Infections associated with urinary catheters, ventilators, and central lines, are common and they can be deadly. They are almost entirely preventable.
- Urinary catheter – infection of the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and/or urethra
- Ventilator – pneumonia
- Central Line – bloodstream infection
Infections associated with these and other common devices are often the result of failure to follow protocols such as:
- Proper handwashing
- Proper cleaning of devices
- Removing devices as soon as they are no longer needed
Surgical Site Infections
Surgical site infections can affect the incision just at the skin level or they can be much deeper affecting organs and other tissues. Medical negligence leading to surgical site infections can include:
- Failure to follow handwashing protocol
- Failure to clean hands and arms up to the elbows immediately before surgery
- Failure to properly prep patient’s skin and remove hair as necessary
- Dirty surgical instruments
- Other unsanitary conditions
If you have developed an infection while in the hospital or shortly after going home, learn more about Medical Malpractice Lawsuits.
Injuries may also be caused by defective medical products. Check for recalled ventilators and catheters in the United States if you or someone you know has been hurt.
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