Infections Acquired in Hospitals
Infections are becoming commonplace in hospitals and other care facilities. The problem is especially serious in larger hospitals. In addition, Medicare's current policy is not to pay for the treatment of hospital-acquired infections. Many attorneys will not take these cases because they are difficult to win.
At the Louisville, Kentucky, law firm of White & McCubbins, LLP, we do represent the victims of hospital-acquired infections, working to find a way to hold hospitals accountable for the harm the infection caused. As experienced lawyers, we understand that infection can occur at any point in the health care system, and its effects can be life changing or life ending.
We represent clients who have been infected by bacteria and fungi that could have originated in many locations and in many ways throughout the hospital system, including:
- Unsanitary utensils used in the operating room
- Unclean life support machines
- Dirty air conditioning units
- Contaminated needles
- Hazardous waste that was not properly disposed of
- Germ-ridden floors
- Medical staff who did not properly wash or sanitize their hands
- Building renovations that release toxic mold into the air
Super Bugs That Can Wreak Havoc
Germs can enter the body through a cut, sore, dirty catheter, needle or breathing tube. The infection can be minor and localized to the surface of the skin, or can be more serious and involve a major organ. Some bacteria that are highly resistant to antibiotics — called super bugs — are showing up in more and more hospitals across the country.
Super bugs may include MRSA (a form of staph), VRE, HIV, hepatitis and aspergillosis. These bacteria can lead to septicemia, toxic shock, asthma or bleeding lungs, scarring and impotence, amputation of limbs — even death. Sadly, patients with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.
Contact the Louisville, Kentucky, Law Firm of White & McCubbins, L.L.C.
If you believe that you acquired an infection due to hospital negligence, call an experienced personal injury lawyer for help. Call 502-403-2710 or toll-free 866-936-6290 to schedule a free consultation.
