Hospital-Acquired Infections: How Negligence Plays a Role – A Blog by Sweeney Solicitors

Hospital-Acquired Infections: How Negligence Plays a Role – A Blog by Sweeney Solicitors
Hospitals are revered institutions of healing, offering respite from ailments and injuries. Yet,
sometimes, they become unintentional grounds for new infections. Hospital-acquired infections
(HAIs) can be an unsettling reality for patients seeking care. The role of negligence in such cases
cannot be understated, and understanding this relationship is pivotal. At Sweeney Solicitors, we are
committed to raising awareness about HAIs and the potential legal avenues for those affected. This
blog delves deep into the nexus of hospital-acquired infections and medical negligence in Ireland.
1. Unravelling Hospital-Acquired Infections
HAIs refer to infections that patients contract while receiving treatment for another condition in a
healthcare facility, with symptoms usually manifesting 48 hours after admission. Common HAIs
include:

• MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
• C. difficile (Clostridium difficile)
• Surgical site infections
• Ventilator-associated pneumonia
  2. How Does Negligence Factor In?
  While not every HAI is a result of negligence, certain scenarios distinctly highlight subpar care:
• Poor Hygiene Practices: This can be as simple as healthcare professionals not washing hands
  regularly or adequately.
• Improper Sterilization: Not thoroughly sterilizing surgical instruments or medical equipment.
• Lack of Infection Control Measures: Inefficient isolation of infected patients or poor ventilation
  systems.
• Antibiotic Misuse: Over-prescription or incorrect administration can lead to antibiotic-resistant
  strains.
  3. The Impact of HAIs
  The consequences of contracting an HAI can range from extended hospital stays to severe health
  complications, and unfortunately, sometimes even death. Beyond the physical impact:
• Emotional Distress: The knowledge of contracting an infection in a place of healing can be
  traumatic.
• Financial Implications: Extended treatments, medication, and additional hospital stays add to
  medical bills.

4. Legal Recourse in Ireland
If you believe you or a loved one contracted an HAI due to negligence:

• Documentation is Crucial: Maintain thorough records of your hospital stay, treatments
  received, and any communications related to the infection.
• Engage Expert Legal Aid: Navigating medical negligence claims can be complex. At Sweeney
  Solicitors, our seasoned team is equipped to guide you through every step.
• Remember the Time Limits: In Ireland, there is typically a two-year window from the time the
  negligence is identified to initiate a legal claim.
  5. The Pathway to Justice
  The process for pursuing a claim involves:
• Initial Consultation: Discussing the intricacies of your case with a solicitor to understand its
  merits.
• Gathering Evidence: This includes medical records, expert opinions, and possibly testimony
  from healthcare professionals.
• Initiating the Claim: If there’s substantial evidence, the legal process begins.
• Resolution: Most cases find resolution outside of the courtroom through settlements.
  However, if required, the case may go to trial.
  Conclusion
  While hospitals remain our sanctuaries of health, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks like
  HAIs. Through vigilance, awareness, and legal safeguards, patients can protect themselves and seek
  redress when needed. At Sweeney Solicitors, our mission is to stand with victims of medical
  negligence, ensuring their voices are heard, and justice is sought. If you’ve faced the ordeal of an HAI
  and believe negligence was at play, we’re here to help.