Any place where many people live in close proximity, there is risk of infestation or infection spreading rapidly. Particularly in places like nursing homes, where residents may have compromised immune systems, viruses and pests can spread like wildfire. In some cases, families concerned about the conditions at a nursing home may be able to establish that infestations or infections are indicative of negligence and poor care standards.
When might infestations or infections serve as a warning of negligent care at a facility?
When poor outcomes are preventable
Professionals at a nursing home cannot necessarily prevent one resident with a cold from visiting another and passing the virus. However, there are steps that professionals can take to limit the spread of infections and infestations.
Separating those already diagnosed from healthy residents could be an important step. Redoubling efforts to sanitize the facilities, especially shared spaces, can also be important. Personal hygiene practices, including changing gloves, washing hands and minimizing physical contact, can also help limit the spread of infestations and infections.
Promptly responding after a diagnosis to treat a resident is also important. All too often, workers ignore the symptoms of infestations or infections, allowing them to spiral out of control. Treatable conditions, like scabies infestations, can prove fatal if left untreated for too long. Patients can develop secondary infections or might succumb to the symptoms generated by their acquired medical condition.
Families trying to cover medical expenses, afford to move to a new facility or hold a facility accountable for a premature death may need to take legal action. A nursing home negligence lawsuit can help those seeking justice for a loved one who has suffered unnecessarily or died because of unsafe nursing home conditions.