What happens if I believe I contracted a serious infection from an Indianapolis, IN hospital? Can I file a medical malpractice claim?
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Any infection can be uncomfortable and worrisome; however, when you contracted an infection during a hospital stay, the experience may be nerve wracking. In general, as a medical malpractice lawyer might explain to you, hospital contracted infections often affect those who already have a compromised immune system, or are in poor health. These infections, like other infections, could result in serious harm, and in severe cases, a patient could lose their life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in twenty five patients will be affected by an infection that is contracted in a hospital setting. If you believe this has happened to you, it may be possible to file a medical malpractice claim. You should ask an Indianapolis, IN medical malpractice lawyer to review your case to determine whether or not negligence is a factor.
Types of Negligence
Using Unsterilized Equipment and/or Materials
If a medical malpractice lawyer believes your infection has been caused by unsterile materials or equipment, it is possible for the hospital to be accountable. In general, a hospital or medical facility will be liable if the person using the equipment was an employee of the hospital, as opposed to a contractor – such as a doctor (in most cases). Infection might also occur during any treatment or surgery, and at the time of sterilization, cleaning, and bandaging.
Improper Practices at the Hospital
It is certainly possible to acquire an infection at a hospital after being exposed to viruses or bacteria. This could happen in a broad number of ways, but when negligence may be a factor, it would likely involve a patient not being quarantined or given a separate room after being diagnosed with a contagious infection. Other forms of negligence could include improper hand washing and poor hygiene.
Proving Liability
In the event of a hospital being liable for an infection caused by poor sanitation, improper institutional practices, or any other wrongful act made by an employee of the facility, you may have the right to pursue compensation. A medical malpractice lawyer will need to prove that the hospital or a staff member acted negligently, and the negligence was the direct and actual cause of the infection – also known as causation.
Are You Ready to Seek Compensation for an Infection that Is Thought to Have Developed During a Hospital Stay?
When a hospital or medical facility fails to adhere to the duty of care in that they have an obligation to protect patients from further injury or harm, they may be responsible. Compensation for your medical care, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other losses may be available. These tend to be complicated cases that should be overseen by a hospital malpractice lawyer. Call the Ward & Ward Law Firm today to schedule a consultation.
