Sepsis Arising From Nursing Home Neglect

Many of us have elderly relatives living in nursing homes because they can no longer receive the level of care they need in their own home. We believe that nursing homes are the best environment for them because they will be looked after and cared for. Proper care in a nursing home will help prevent infections, the need for hospitalization, and the development of more serious or life-threatening medical conditions. However, often nursing homes do not have an adequate number of staff to care for the residents and this can result in neglect of the residents. This neglect can cause serious infections and even sepsis to develop. If an elderly relative has gotten a serious bacterial blood infection known as sepsis while living in a nursing home, then you should talk to a sepsis nursing home lawyer at the Higgins Firm immediately. We will discuss your claim with you and see to it that you are compensated fairly for what you and your relative have experienced.

Who is at an increased risk of developing Sepsis?

Anyone who has a compromised immune system is more susceptible to infections. Obviously, many nursing home residents will have an increased risk of developing sepsis because their immune systems can not properly fight off infections. Nursing home residents also have an increased risk of sepsis because they may already have serious illnesses or medical conditions such as pressure sores, kidney and urinary tract problems that make it easier for them to develop an infection. Other medical conditions that may lead to sepsis are if a person has too much acid in their blood, if they have an increased or decreased low blood cell count or a decreased platelet count. As such, the Nursing Homes should be vigilant to prevent all avoidable infections.

What kinds of factors may be an indication that sepsis is possible?

Sepsis usually is possible if there is already some type of infection. If a patient is experiencing the following, they may be suffering from sepsis:

• feeling cold and shaky
• having a high or low fever
• not using the restroom like normal
• an increased heart rate
• skin feeling warmer to the touch or having a rash
• unusual breathing pattern
• a patient is confused

What is involved in the treatment of Sepsis?

It is important that sepsis be treated as quickly as possible for the best chance of a full recovery. Treatment for sepsis typically involves placing the person in intensive care at the hospital. Medical staff will then work to determine where the infection is coming from and give a patient medication to fight it. If the case of sepsis is more advanced, a ventilator may need to be used to help the patient breathe normally. Machines may also need to be used to regulate blood pressure, pain medication may need to be given as well as medication to help regulate blood sugar and boost the immune system. Surgery may be needed to remove the infection from the body.

How can Sepsis be prevented in Nursing Homes?

Nursing homes need to make sure they are providing the care that is needed to all their residents and pay extra attention to those residents who cannot get out of bed, or have mobility problems. It is also a good idea to make sure residents receive baths or showers on a regular basis and clean and treat any sores or other injuries properly to prevent sepsis.

If you feel that these steps were not taken by the nursing home and your relative developed sepsis as a result then you should contact one of our experienced and compassionate sepsis nursing home lawyers with the Higgins Firm. We will hear your claim and address any concerns you may have. If it is determined that you have a case, we will work with you to see to it that you receive compensation for any injuries and illnesses that the nursing home’s negligence may have caused.

You can contact us online or by calling 800.705.2121 to discuss your case and any questions you might have.