Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), are infections patients acquire at healthcare facilities while receiving treatment for other conditions. HAIs often result from the transmission of pathogens within the hospital environment.
The common types include urinary tract infections, surgical site infections and bloodstream infections. While not all HAIs are due to medical negligence, they can sometimes indicate lapses in the standard of care if they arise from the causes below.
Inadequate hygiene practices
Hospitals are required to maintain strict hygiene standards to protect patients from HAIs. Failure to follow proper hand washing protocols or sterilization procedures can increase the risk to patients and amount to medical negligence.
Improper antibiotic use
When antibiotics are not used appropriately—whether through incorrect agents, dosages or durations—bacteria can adapt and become resistant, significantly raising the risk of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).
Failure to monitor and manage risks
Hospitals must monitor patients for signs of infection and mitigate any risks associated with medical procedures. Poor vigilance could lead to infections that could have been prevented, and the healthcare provider could be legally negligent.
How do you prove negligence?
To prove medical negligence in the case of HAIs, you must demonstrate that the infection resulted from a breach in the standard of care that directly caused you harm. In other words, would you have contracted the HAI if the healthcare provider had followed appropriate healthcare standards? This requires analyzing hospital practices, reviewing your medical records and obtaining expert testimony if necessary.
Seeking urgent legal guidance as a victim of a HAI or other forms of medical negligence is in your best interests. The proper guidance through the claims process can help protect your interests and increase the chances of a favorable resolution.
