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If your loved one developed a urinary tract infection at a nursing home, you may be able to sue the nursing home for neglect. Since UTIs are so common in nursing homes and have such serious consequences for the elderly, facilities need to reasonably do everything in their power to prevent their residents from developing infections. If a nursing home neglects this responsibility, it may be liable for medical expenses and related pain and suffering.
Urinary tract infections are a growing problem in nursing homes across the country, and one of the leading causes of death for nursing home residents. Because of this, nursing homes should do everything they can to prevent their patients from developing infections. Sanitation and cleanliness are most effective in preventing UTIs, so nursing homes should have hand-washing and hand sanitizer stations throughout their facility. Caregivers should help residents who are bed-bound and/or incontinent by changing their underclothing often and helping them get to the bathroom as needed.
Studies show that patients who use urinary catheters have a higher rate of developing UTIs, so nursing homes should limit their use of urinary catheters in order to protect their residents from infection. Additionally, caregivers should make sure that their patients stay hydrated, as this prevents UTIs from developing.
Nursing homes have a legal duty to use reasonable care to prevent UTIs and other infections from developing in their patients. Caregivers can and should prevent infection by washing their hands often, limiting their use of catheters, and helping patients with incontinence, as well as those who need assistance in the bathroom. Furthermore, nursing homes should use reasonable care to promote sanitation and cleanliness in both residents and staff members.
If a nursing home fails to take these precautions, and a resident develops a UTI, then that facility may be liable for the consequences. This means that the nursing home may be responsible for medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses, and pain and suffering.
If your loved one developed a UTI at a nursing home or assisted living facility, and you are wondering if you have a claim, please feel free to call and speak to one of our experienced Georgia nursing home abuse lawyers today. Our consultations are always free. If you would like more information about this topic, be sure to click on our other videos, or better yet, click the subscribe button to subscribe to our YouTube channel. Thank you.
