Many times people go into a hospital for one thing, only to come down with something else while there. Of course hospitals are full of germs, but with proper precautions, the spread of some germs can be prevented. A hospital-acquired infection (HAI) or nosocomial infection can delay the patient’s recovery, discharge or even result in death. Many times these infections can increase the length and cost of the hospital stay. In some cases it may be wise to seek the advice of an attorney that specializes in Medical Malpractice Cumberland.
There are many different types of infections that this can apply to. Some of the most common are:
Staphylococcus aureus, or a “Steph” infection
Methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MERSA
Hospital acquired Pneumonia
Ventilator acquired Pneumonia
Tuberculosis
Urinary Tract Infections
While all of these infections are not always grounds of medical malpractice, they are usually caused and spread by staff having poor hygiene practices. Antibacterial foams, sprays and wipes, do not take the place of proper and frequent hand washing. Poor HVAC filtration and poorly sanitized rooms can also contribute to HAI.
To prove medical malpractice in Cumberland, the attorney must be able to show that the hospital was negligent. Simply being diagnosed with an infection is not enough. Failure to diagnose or proper treat the infection becomes malpractice. While this is sometimes difficult to prove due to the code of silence that many physicians and hospitals practice, it is not impossible. A medical malpractice case can take a very long time to develop and be heard. If successful it can help to recoup the cost of care, pain and suffering, along with the additional costs of continuing care if needed. If the infection resulted in the death of the patient, the suit can produce a monetary benefit to the estate or family of the deceased.
If you or a loved one have been hospitalized, and found yourself diagnosed with an infection that you did not have upon entering the hospital, ask yourself what it cost you in continued care. This can be either while still in the hospital or after you returned home. If it was a significant cost, you may want to consider looking into Medical Malpractice.
Visit online for more information on medical malpractice in Cumberland.
