Hospitals Fail to Meet Federal Infection Goals

Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released its annual National and State Healthcare-Associated Infections Progress Report. The report summarizes and analyzes data from the CDC’s National Healthcare Network, tracking infection prevention efforts from 2008 to 2013. While some of the results were promising, others fell far short of government targets for hospital safety.

Hospitals are required to report six types of infections to the CDC, including surgical wound, MRSA bloodstream, C. difficile and urinary tract infections.  The government’s goals for hospitals nationwide:

• 50% fewer central-line blood infections
• 30% fewer MRSA infections
• 25% fewer surgical wound, C. difficile and catheter-associated infections

Unfortunately, the numbers the CDC is reporting do not match up. MRSA infections were only down by 8%, while surgical wound and C. difficile infections dropped by 19% and 10%, respectively. Urinary tract infections, the most common catheter-related infections, were actually up 6% from 2009 to 2013.

While progress is being made, infections are still a very real threat for patients undergoing surgery or other medical treatments. These infections can poison the bloodstream, damage organs and even kill, so every case must be taken seriously. If you’ve been the victim of an infection while staying at a hospital or receiving treatment at a clinic, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering.

The Ohio medical malpractice attorneys at The Eisen Law Firm work exclusively with medical malpractice cases, and have the knowledge and experience necessary to build a strong case to secure maximum compensation for you. They understand the nuances of medical procedures, as well as the importance of medical regulations. They encourage anyone who is a victim of medical malpractice to contact them online or call 216-687-0900 for a consultation.