Going to a hospital is never a pleasant experience. We hope to receive the treatment we need from competent and caring healthcare professionals, heal from our injuries, and leave as soon as possible. What we don’t expect is to leave the hospital in a worse condition than when we entered it. Unfortunately, that is exactly what is happening in certain cases due to an increase in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).

The problem with HAIs, also referred to as healthcare-associated infections and nosocomial infections, is the frequency, the cost, and the health dangers they present. HAIs are more common than you think. A recent study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that 4.5 HAIs occur for every 100 hospital admissions. The same study estimates that the direct costs on the healthcare system from HAIs could be between $35 and $45 billion.

As disturbing as the incidence and costs of HAIs are, the dangers they pose can be even more alarming. HAIs present unique health dangers to people because of the environment in which they are found. Many of the infections are caused by antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria that are hard to treat. In addition, many of the victims of HAIs already have weakened immune systems and are unable to fight off the dangerous viruses and bacteria that are attacking their bodies.

The failure of a hospital to prevent and to effectively treat HAIs can constitute medical malpractice. If you or a loved one has contracted an HAI during a recent visit to a hospital, a West Virginia medical malpractice lawyer can help you receive the appropriate medical treatment you need and recover damages for the injuries you incurred.

Please call one of the compassionate attorneys at Calwell Luce diTrapano PLLC at 304-400-6558 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.