Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria “Superbugs” Threaten Lives of Nursing Home Residents

 Posted on May 30, 2023 in Neglect

Antibiotics are supposed to kill bacteria. However, some bacteria survive antibiotics and begin to grow and multiply. Eventually, certain strains of bacteria become resistant to common antibiotics. Many experts blame the overuse of antibiotics for the rise in these so-called “superbugs.”

For vulnerable nursing home residents, superbugs are a potentially deadly threat. Nursing home staff must take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of bacteria in the facility and keep residents as safe as possible. Failure to maintain a clean, hygienic facility and use appropriate measures to prevent the spread of bacteria can lead to avoidable infections.

Nursing Homes Must Take Steps to Reduce Drug-Resistant Bacteria

Nursing homes have a legal duty to ensure a reasonably safe and hygienic facility. Residents in nursing homes are already vulnerable to infections due to compromised immune systems and other health problems. Not every infection can be prevented, but nursing home staff must take reasonable steps to reduce the chances of a patient being infected by bacteria and other pathogens.

The use of personal protective equipment when caring for patients with feeding tubes, catheters, or open wounds is essential. Staff must also be vigilant in thoroughly washing their hands throughout the day, especially between patients. The nursing home facility should be regularly cleaned and sanitized.

The Illinois Department of Public Health launched an initiative to combat an extremely dangerous type of drug-resistant organism called carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Medical professionals in Chicago have also been bathing patients with a special antimicrobial soap called chlorhexidine to reduce CRE bacteria. 

Although many positive steps in the right direction have been taken to reduce illness and death caused by drug-resistant bacteria, there is still more that needs to be done.

Taking Legal Action on Behalf of a Loved One

infections are sometimes a direct result of nursing home negligence. If your loved one was injured or passed away because of an infection in a nursing home, you may be able to file a claim against the facility and seek justice on your loved one’s behalf. The nursing home facility may also be required to compensate you for your damages. Reach out to an experienced nursing home negligence attorney to learn more.

Contact Our Chicago Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers

Nursing homes must take special precautions to prevent the spread of infection and disease as much as possible. If a nursing home patient is seriously injured or dies as a result of and avoidable infection, the nursing home may be liable for damages.

Contact our experienced Cook County nursing home neglect attorneys to learn more about your legal options. Call 312-535-4625 and set up a free initial consultation.

Sources:

https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/patient-safety-quality/cre.html

https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/patient-safety-quality/hai-ar-prevention.html 

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/04/02/707842736/enter-title