How A Michigan Unsanitary Conditions Lawyer Can Help
Last updated on March 27, 2025
You don’t need a medical degree to know how vital sterile environments are in health care facilities. Bacteria thrive in dirty environments, and when these institutions aren’t as clean as they should be, a patient’s bad situation may worsen.
If you or a loved one has developed complications from unsanitary conditions in a health care facility, it’s crucial to get the help of an experienced medical malpractice lawyer. At Scott Goodwin Law P.C., our attorneys have experience in helping people who have been in your position.
Causes Of Unsanitary Conditions In Health Care Facilities
One significant factor that can contribute to patient harm is the presence of unsanitary conditions. These conditions can lead to infections, which might form the basis of a legal claim. Some common causes of unsanitary conditions in health care settings include:
- Unsterilized or inadequately sterilized medical tools and equipment
- Employees wearing contaminated clothing, gloves or masks
- People working on unsterilized work surfaces
- Contaminated cloth items (bed linens, towels, patient gowns or curtains)
- Employees working while sick
- Employees not properly washing their hands
Understanding these potential causes can help an individual evaluate whether they have a valid claim. Consulting with a legal professional can provide further guidance on how these conditions relate to specific cases.
Common Types Of Health Care-Associated Infections
Health care-associated infections (HAIs) are infections that patients can get while receiving treatment. These conditions can lead to significant complications, increased health care costs and prolonged hospital stays. Common examples include:
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infections
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
- Surgical site infections
- Bloodstream infections
- Ventilator-associated pneumonia
- Clostridium difficile
Awareness of these common infections can help in taking preventive measures. It is also crucial in identifying potential negligence cases in health care settings.
FAQ About Unsanitary Conditions In Health Care Facilities
If you or a loved one has experienced an HAI, you may have questions. Below are answers to a few of the more common questions that our team receives.
How often should a nurse clean a room when someone is in the hospital?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hospitals should clean inpatient and outpatient spaces daily. More frequent cleaning may be necessary if the patient is in isolation or has an infection.
How common are secondary infections?
Secondary infections are relatively common in health care settings. Patients with compromised immune systems are at risk of contracting HAIs. The CDC estimates that approximately one in 31 hospital patients has at least one HAI on any given day.
What are the indicators of sterilized equipment?
As a patient, it may be challenging to verify the sterilization of equipment. However, you can look for sterilization indicators, such as sterile packaging and color-changing strips.
Talk To Our Lawyers Today To Know Your Legal Options
At Scott Goodwin Law P.C., our lawyers understand that medical malpractice cases can be complex. You’ll need someone on your side who understands the law. Contact us by reaching out online or calling 1-888-GOODWIN for a free consultation, and our team will explain the legal process to you.