Preventing infections is one of the most important parts of keeping nursing home residents healthy. Unfortunately, nursing home residents are often particularly vulnerable to infection due to weakened immune systems. For this reason, the law requires each nursing home to implement an Infection Control Program. Nevertheless, millions of residents contract unnecessary infections and complications each year. One complication is Sepsis which can result in life-altering consequences.
Sepsis is the result of the body’s adverse reaction to bacteria or other germs. It is not caused by the infection itself, but the body’s response to chemicals released to fight the infection. Sepsis can lead to septic shock causing a patient’s blood pressure to drop to deadly levels. Even when it doesn’t, any significant blood pressure drop can cause damage to vital organs resulting in ongoing problems.
The most important step nursing homes can take to prevent Sepsis is to follow its Infection Control Program. These programs typically include protocols such as washing hands, wiping off surfaces and equipment, and other standard practices. Any nursing home resident suffering from Sepsis must be treated immediately. This means the patient should be taken to the emergency room as soon as possible. If medical attention is delayed, the resident may die or suffer lifelong consequences.
If your loved one has suffered from Sepsis while living in a nursing home, we encourage you to contact our nursing home negligence and abuse law firm.
Nursing home abuse and negligence claims involve many complex legal and medical issues. Having the right attorney is essential to recovering what you deserve. Our Midwest nursing home abuse law firm will do everything possible to assist you in obtaining the maximum compensation possible. More importantly, our firm will serve as an ally that will give you and your family the respect and compassion it needs. Contact us to protect your family today.