INFECTIONS

Pittsburgh Hospital Acquired Infections Lawyers

Hospital-acquired infections, which refer to infections developed by patients during their hospital stay following surgery or other procedures, pose a significant and pressing national healthcare crisis. Among these infections, one of the most severe types is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). MRSA is a strain of bacteria that demonstrates resistance to specific antibiotics, including methicillin, as well as more commonly used ones like oxacillin, penicillin, and amoxicillin.



Based on a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that an estimated 94,000 individuals contracted the serious MRSA infection in 2005 alone. Tragically, approximately 18,650 patients lost their lives during a hospital stay due to a severe MRSA infection. The CDC highlights that staph infections, including MRSA, are most commonly observed among patients in hospitals and other healthcare facilities, such as nursing homes and dialysis centers.

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Pennsylvania Bacterial Meningitis Misdiagnosis Attorneys

Bacterial meningitis is another significant infection that deserves serious attention. Meningitis refers to the inflammation of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is sometimes referred to as spinal meningitis. This infection can be caused by either viral or bacterial agents. Viral meningitis is typically milder and tends to resolve without specific treatment, while bacterial meningitis can be extremely severe and often constitutes a medical emergency due to the potential for brain damage, limb amputation, hearing loss, or learning disabilities.

The primary culprits behind bacterial meningitis are Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis, commonly known as meningococcus. Although anyone, regardless of age, can contract the infection, bacterial meningitis primarily affects children and young adults. Symptoms can range from fever, headache, and stiff neck to more severe manifestations such as confusion or seizures.

Vancomycin Resistant Enterococcus (VRE)

Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE) is another significant infection that can be acquired within hospital settings. VRE has the potential to cause severe infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), wound infections, and even bloodstream infections. Certain individuals, particularly those with prolonged hospital stays or compromised immune systems, are more susceptible to acquiring VRE.

To detect this infection, a specific cotton swab is gently used to collect a sample from the skin around the rectal area. This sample is then cultured in a laboratory. Typically, it takes around 2 to 3 days to obtain the results from the culture, which can confirm the presence of VRE.

Contact Our Pennsylvania Medical Malpractice Lawyers Today

Irrespective of the specific hospital infection, it is crucial to prioritize timely and suitable screening, testing, and treatment for patients. Regrettably, instances of medical malpractice can arise when physicians or hospitals fail to recognize the signs and symptoms of infectious diseases like MRSA, meningitis, or VRE, and consequently, do not promptly and appropriately provide the necessary treatment.