Hospital-Acquired Infections
Unfortunately, some patients who have been admitted into hospitals will acquire a secondary condition while receiving care in these facilities. These hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) – also known as healthcare-associated infections or nosocomial infections – typically arise in patients 48 hours or longer after being admitted.
Since those who are admitted to hospitals are generally in a weakened state of health to begin with, they are quite vulnerable to any exposure they have to outside diseases or illnesses. Because of this, it is the hospital’s duty to ensure that the facilities are properly sterilized and sick patients are isolated from one another.
Why Do These Infections Occur?
There are a number of reasons why nosocomial illnesses arise and spread among hospital patients. Because these conditions may be spread through direct contact or airborne transmission, patients must be sufficiently isolated from one another and surfaces must be kept sterilized. However, some hospitals fail to follow these guidelines.
Some of the main risk factors for HAIs include the following:
- Compromised immune system
- Invasive procedures opening up the body to infection
- Indwelling catheters
- Hospital worker failure to follow sterilization protocol
- Lack of protocol regarding washing and uniforms
- Antibiotic-resistant bacteria that are unaffected by the administered drugs
HAIs can be prevented if preventative protocols are set in place and followed by all hospital workers. With requirements regarding sterilization, hand and arm washing, and the use of gloves and aprons in place, most patients should not undergo the terrible experience of contracting a nosocomial infection.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about hospital-borne illnesses, contact the Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today at 215-238-1130 to speak with one of our experienced attorneys about your concerns.