Common Hospital-Acquired Infections In Louisiana

You might think of the hospital as the safest place to be when your body is vulnerable, but the opposite may be true.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 75,000 Americans die from infections they developed during a hospital stay. Here, we delve into the most common HAIs in Louisiana, offering a comprehensive understanding of their prevalence and impact. For those affected by these issues, consulting a Lake Charles medical malpractice lawyer can help you understand your legal options.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a respiratory tract infection that affects the lungs. Hospital-acquired pneumonia generally occurs as a result of a bacterial infection, rather than a virus. The risk factors for contracting this deadly disease include:

• Visiting a hospital clinic or dialysis center
• Receiving home wound care
• Taking antibiotics or chemotherapy intravenously
• Staying in an acute care facility
• Residing in a nursing home or long-term care center
• Associating with carriers of drug-resistant pathogens

Sepsis

Patients with open wounds from an injury or surgery are at risk for infectious pathogens that infiltrate the bloodstream and weaken the immune system. Septicemia, or sepsis, is a life-threatening infection that can extend your hospital stay for months, especially if you are older or immunocompromised in any way.

Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus

MRSA is a type of staph infection that has become resistant to Penicillin and related antibiotics, making it extremely difficult to treat. Undetected or uncontrolled, MRSA can spread through the body and attack vital organs, causing severe pain and even death.

Because deadly pathogens thrive in hospital environments, healthcare professionals have a responsibility to follow strict hygiene and disinfection protocols. When medical staff members fail to uphold safety standards, leading to the serious injury or death of a patient, it could be a sign of medical malpractice.

Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs)

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections are among the most frequently reported HAIs in Louisiana hospitals. They occur when bacteria enter the urinary system through catheters, which are often used for prolonged periods.

Patients with indwelling catheters are at a heightened risk, and these infections can lead to complications such as kidney damage or bloodstream infections. Hospitals are working diligently to reduce CAUTI rates through better hygiene practices and limiting catheter use.

Surgical Site Infections (SSIs)

Surgical site infections develop at the site of surgery within 30 days of a procedure and are particularly concerning in Louisiana’s high-volume surgical hospitals. Factors such as unsterile environments, contaminated surgical instruments, or improper post-operative care contribute to their occurrence. SSIs can range from mild skin infections to severe complications involving internal organs or implanted devices.

Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs)

Central line-associated bloodstream infections occur when pathogens enter the bloodstream through central venous catheters. These infections are a significant concern in Louisiana’s intensive care units (ICUs), where central lines are commonly used for medication delivery and fluid management. CLABSIs often result in extended hospital stays, increased medical costs, and higher patient mortality rates.

Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP)

Patients on mechanical ventilators face an elevated risk of developing ventilator-associated pneumonia. This infection occurs when bacteria enter the lungs via the ventilator tube, causing inflammation and fluid accumulation. VAP is a major issue in Louisiana’s critical care facilities, particularly among patients requiring long-term ventilation due to severe illnesses or injuries.

Clostridioides difficile Infections (CDIs)

Clostridioides difficile, commonly referred to as C. difficile, is a bacterium that causes severe diarrhea and colitis. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics disrupts the natural gut microbiota, allowing C. difficile to thrive. Louisiana hospitals have observed a growing number of CDI cases, often linked to prolonged hospital stays or frequent antibiotic administration.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a highly resistant strain of bacteria that frequently causes skin and bloodstream infections. In Louisiana, MRSA is a common concern in trauma centers, surgical units, and even community healthcare settings. It spreads rapidly through skin contact or contaminated surfaces, making it difficult to control without stringent hygiene measures.

Bloodstream Infections (BSIs)

Bloodstream infections occur when bacteria or fungi enter the bloodstream through intravenous lines, surgical wounds, or other invasive medical devices. In Louisiana, BSIs are frequently reported in emergency departments and surgical units. These infections can escalate quickly into sepsis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Gastrointestinal Infections

Gastrointestinal infections in hospitals are often linked to contaminated food, water, or poor sanitation practices. These infections cause symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration and prolonged recovery times. Louisiana hospitals emphasize strict food safety protocols to minimize the occurrence of such infections.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (SSTIs)

Skin and soft tissue infections are common among patients with open wounds, surgical incisions, or burns. These infections often arise when bacteria invade damaged tissue, causing redness, swelling, and pain. Louisiana hospitals, especially those with specialized burn units, implement strict wound care procedures to prevent SSTIs.

Hepatitis Infections

Hepatitis infections, particularly Hepatitis B and C, are a concern among healthcare workers and dialysis patients in Louisiana. These infections typically spread through exposure to contaminated needles, surgical instruments, or blood products. Vaccination programs and safe injection practices are critical in reducing the risk of hepatitis transmission.

Preventing Hospital-Acquired Infections

Preventing HAIs requires a comprehensive approach that includes strict adherence to infection control protocols, staff training, and patient education. Key measures include proper hand hygiene, the use of sterile equipment, minimizing invasive device use, and administering antibiotics judiciously. Healthcare facilities in Louisiana continue to invest in advanced technologies and infection prevention programs to enhance patient safety and reduce the burden of HAIs.

For patients and families impacted by HAIs, consulting an experienced medical malpractice lawyer at Lee M. Schwalben, M.D., J.D., LLC can help determine if negligence contributed to the infection and explore potential legal recourse.

Key Takeaways

1. Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) remain a significant concern in Louisiana healthcare facilities.
2. Common HAIs include CAUTIs, SSIs, CLABSIs, and MRSA.
3. Prevention requires adherence to hygiene protocols and reduced use of invasive devices.
4. Victims of HAIs may benefit from consulting a medical malpractice lawyer for legal guidance.