Suffering an infection while at the hospital is not uncommon, and specific surgical procedures or techniques can increase the chance of an infection. However, when a preventable infection is caused by negligence or medical professionals do not follow the standard guidelines, the party in question could be held liable. Medical errors can lead to fatal infections and have become the third leading cause of death in the US. Suppose you acquired an infection during or immediately following a hospital stay. In that case, you must contact a medical malpractice lawyer to determine if you have a claim and are entitled to compensation. Keep reading to learn more
Types of Hospital-Acquired Infections
There are many kinds of bacteria and infections that are found in cases of hospital negligence. Some of the most common types include:
Surgical Site Infections
These infections appear near the surgical incision site. These infections are often caused by a lack of proper sanitation and cleaning during surgery or post-operative care. Unsanitary rooms or tools can cause them. Conditions such as these often involve the skin only but can also be more severe and affect tissues under the skin, organs, or implanted material.
Device-Related Infections
Medical devices inserted into the body, such as IVs, oxygen tubes, and catheters that have not been cleaned properly can lead to infection. Complications from device-related infections can cause dangerous health risks, including:
- Pain and irritation
- Sepsis
- Organ failure
- Death
Pneumonia
Hospitals are a breeding ground for viruses, fungi, and bacteria. These dangerous particles can be found in the air and on unsterilized materials. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that is commonly found in hospital patients, even young and healthy patients. Anyone with a compromised immune system that is receiving treatment at a hospital could be particularly at risk for complications from pneumonia or other respiratory infections.
How to Prove You Have a Case
If you believe you have a hospital-acquired infection, you need to be able to prove medical malpractice was the cause. The primary aspects of a medical malpractice case include:
- A doctor/patient relationship existed
- The doctor did not meet the minimum standard of care
- Failure to provide the standard of care resulted in illness/injuries and damages to the patient
To prove liability in medical malpractice cases, attorneys rely on medical records and expert testimony. It is best to contact a reputable attorney as soon as possible after developing a hospital-acquired infection so they can determine if you have a case.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.