Utah Nursing Home Infections Lawyers

Infections are an all-too-often occurrence for residents of nursing home facilities across the nation. Most of these individuals suffer from fragile health, including weakened immune systems and chronic illnesses associated with advanced aging. These factors, combined with communal living in which individuals are exposed to one another, staff, and visitors daily in a confined environment, put these vulnerable residents at high risk for infections. 

At Elder Care Injury, we are a dedicated Utah-based law firm concentrating our entire practice on nursing home negligence and abuse. We understand the pain and distress caused by negligence, especially when it leads to severe infections. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to securing justice for your loved ones and holding responsible parties accountable.

Connect with Elder Care Injury at (801) 997-5019 to schedule a free initial consultation with a Utah nursing home infections attorney. You can also reach us via our online contact form. 

Infections in Nursing Homes

Infections are a common and dangerous threat to the health of nursing home residents. Recent data reveals alarming statistics about the prevalence and impact of infections in these settings.

According to an Office of Inspector General (OIG) analysis from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, certain nursing homes have been identified with extremely high infection rates. In the recent COVID-19 pandemic, over 1,300 nursing homes had a 75 percent rate of these infections. 

The COVID-19 pandemic further underscored the vulnerability of nursing home residents to infections. Despite making up only 2.5% of the U.S. senior population, nursing home residents accounted for 20% of all deaths from COVID-19 among seniors over 65.

Types of Nursing Home Infections

Nursing home infections can include a wide variety caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These involve infections brought in from outside to those that develop during or after a resident has had a medical intervention for some other issue.

These infections can include but are not limited to:

• Pneumonia and aspiration pneumonia
• Urinary tract infections
• Influenza
• Staph 
• MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
• Sepsis

These infections can lead to devastating consequences for seniors, such as chronic disease, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, congestion, diarrhea, chills, fever, shortness of breath, organ failure, and even death. 

Nursing Home Negligence Leading to Infections

Nursing homes are meant to be safe havens for older people, providing them with the care and attention they need. However, negligence in these facilities can lead to serious health hazards like infections. 

Types of negligence that can lead to infections can include:

• Poor Hygiene Practices. Good hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of diseases. This includes both personal hygiene for residents and cleanliness in the facility. If staff members neglect to wash their hands regularly or fail to ensure that residents maintain good hygiene, it could result in infections.
• Insufficient Staffing. Understaffing is a common issue in nursing homes. Without enough staff to properly care for all residents, it could lead to neglect and an increased risk of infections. Overworked staff may skip essential steps in infection control, such as regular cleaning and sanitizing.
• Lack of Infection Control Measures. Infection control measures are crucial in a healthcare setting like a nursing home. These measures include isolation procedures for sick residents, proper handling and disposal of medical waste, and routine sanitation of shared areas. Negligence in implementing these measures can lead to the spread of infections.
• Improper Wound Care. Elderly individuals often have fragile skin that can easily break or bruise, leading to wounds. If these wounds are not properly cleaned and bandaged, they can become infected. Negligence in wound care can lead to severe infections, including life-threatening sepsis.
• Inadequate Training. Nursing home staff must be poorly trained in infection prevention and control. If they lack proper training, they may unknowingly contribute to the spread of infections. For example, they may not know how to clean equipment or handle contaminated materials properly.
• Failure to Monitor Health Conditions. Many nursing home residents have chronic conditions that require regular monitoring. If staff neglect to monitor these conditions, it could result in complications, including infections. For example, residents with diabetes are more prone to infections and need careful supervision to prevent them.
• Medication Errors. Medication errors can also lead to infections. For example, if a resident is given the wrong medication or dosage, it could weaken their immune system and make them more susceptible to infections.

Nursing homes must take all necessary precautions to prevent infections. By addressing the above areas of negligence, nursing homes can reduce the risk of diseases and provide a safer environment for their residents.

What Can Families Do in Negligence Cases?

If you suspect your loved one has suffered from an infection due to nursing home negligence, it's crucial to act swiftly. Document any signs of infection, communicate with healthcare providers, and seek legal counsel.

Comprehensive Legal Help at Elder Care Injury 

Our accomplished legal team is committed to fighting for the rights of nursing home residents. We understand the legal complexities of these cases and the emotional toll they take on families. That's why we offer compassionate, personalized legal services to help you navigate this difficult time.

In cases of suspected negligence, we will thoroughly investigate your case, gather crucial evidence, and work to hold negligent nursing homes accountable. Don't let your loved ones suffer in silence. Our firm is highly respected for its quality of service and legal excellence in fighting to protect older Americans in nursing home environments.

Contact us to discuss your legal concerns today.