Nursing Home Infections Attorney – Protecting Your Loved One’s Rights

Call 407.612.6464 • 863.324.3500 today to schedule a confidential consultation with Nursing Home Neglect Attorney, Sanga Turnbull.

Combatting Nursing Home Infections

Given that a large number of people are living in close quarters, sharing meals and common space together, it is no surprise that infections are a common occurrence in nursing home facilities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nursing homes and assisted living facilities see between one and three million infections annually.

If your loved one is suffering from a skin infection that you do not believe was adequately assessed or treated in their nursing home because of neglect, call our Orlando nursing home infection attorneys at The Turnbull Law Firm.

Common Infections Seen In Nursing Homes

The American Academy of Family Physicians reported that one-third of all senior deaths are caused by infectious diseases. While the infectious disease may not be serious on its own, elderly patients who are suffering from dementia or cognitive decline will not be able to voice their needs while sick adequately. Furthermore, sick patients require adequate attention to treat their symptoms, and if there is any neglect happening at their nursing home, the consequences can be fatal for an elderly resident with an infection. Types of infections include:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – UTIs are common in nursing homes because the elderly often have weakened immune systems and may not be able to discuss their symptoms with staff because of dementia. If the resident has other health issues, they can make it harder to recover. Catheter use is another factor that increases the chances of a urinary tract infection. Symptoms include a burning sensation while peeing, cloudy or pinkish-colored pee and general pain in the pelvic region. If left untreated, a UTI can result in kidney damage, sepsis or reoccurring UTIs.
• Respiratory Tract Infections – Respiratory infections such as influenza, bronchitis or pneumonia are easily spread throughout a nursing home and can even be brought in by staff or visitors. It is critical for nursing homes to practice prevention such as hand-washing, cleaning surfaces and providing flu vaccines.
• Bone Infections/Osteomyelitis – Osteomyelitis is the infection of the bone or bone marrow or inflammation of the bone due to infection. Those with osteomyelitis typically experience intense pain and muscle spasms in the inflamed area and fever. Osteomyelitis can occur as a complication due to an injury. It is important the nursing home have a doctor diagnose the condition correctly and in a timely manner.
• Diverticulitis – Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when small pouches, or sacs, form and push outward through weak spots in the wall of your colon. This condition can lead to serious complications such as bowel obstruction/impaction and emergency colostomy procedures. It is important the nursing home have a doctor diagnose the condition correctly and in a timely manner.

Let A Skilled Attorney Help Your Loved One

If your loved one is suffering from a skin infection that you do not believe was adequately assessed or treated in their nursing home because of neglect, you may be able to file a personal injury claim for compensation. Compensation can help cover medical expenses, the pain and suffering and any necessary move to another facility.

Call 407.612.6464 • 863.324.3500 today to speak with an experienced Nursing Home Infections and Neglect Lawyer who proudly serves Lakeland, Orlando, and throughout the State of Florida.