Exposure to Influenza in a Portland Nursing Home
The flu is more than an inconvenience. Unfortunately, for the elderly and those with weakened immune systems, getting the flu can mean long recoveries or even death. Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that the number of flu deaths and deaths attributed to influenza and pneumonia topped 50,000 last year in the US.
Inside of a nursing home, residents cannot flee from exposure. They depend on nursing home staff and proper procedures to keep them safe from an outbreak. Unfortunately, nursing home negligence often leads to influenza exposure in Portland nursing homes. A Portland nursing negligence lawyer at Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC can help fight on your family’s behalf.
Spread of Influenza in Nursing Homes
Influenza spreads rapidly in nursing homes due to the close living quarters and frequent interactions between residents, staff, and visitors. The flu virus can spread through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks to others. These droplets can end up in the mouths or noses of people nearby or be inhaled into their lungs. The flu virus can also live on surfaces for several hours, making it easy to spread through contact with contaminated objects.
In a nursing home setting, several factors contribute to the rapid spread of influenza:
- Close contact. Residents often share common areas and participate in group activities, increasing the likelihood of person-to-person transmission.
- Shared facilities. Common areas, such as dining rooms, recreation rooms, and bathrooms, provide multiple opportunities for the virus to spread.
- Frequent visitors. Family members, friends, and volunteers who visit the facility can unknowingly bring the virus into the nursing home.
- Staff interactions. Nursing home staff members move between rooms and care for multiple residents, potentially spreading the virus from one resident to another.
How Negligent Actions of Nursing Home Staff Contribute to Flu Spread
Negligent actions by nursing home staff can significantly contribute to the spread of influenza within the facility. Proper infection control protocols are crucial to preventing outbreaks, but negligence can undermine these efforts. Here are some ways staff negligence can lead to the spread of the flu:
- Poor hand hygiene. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent the spread of influenza is through regular and thorough hand washing. Staff members who do not wash their hands properly can transfer the virus from one resident to another.
- Inadequate use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Staff members should use appropriate PPE, such as masks and gloves, when caring for residents with flu symptoms. Failure to use PPE correctly can increase the risk of spreading the virus.
- Failure to isolate infected residents. Residents with flu symptoms should be isolated to prevent the virus from spreading to others. Neglecting to isolate infected individuals can lead to widespread outbreaks within the facility.
- Lack of vaccination. Ensuring that all staff members and residents receive the flu vaccine each year is a crucial preventative measure. Facilities that do not prioritize vaccination increase the risk of flu outbreaks.
- Improper cleaning and disinfection. Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and common areas are essential to control the spread of the virus. Negligent cleaning practices can allow the virus to thrive and spread.
Potential Compensation Recovery for Victims
Victims of influenza exposure in nursing homes and their families may be entitled to compensation if negligence played a role in the outbreak. Pursuing a legal claim can help cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages related to flu exposure. Here are some steps to consider if you suspect negligence in a nursing home:
- Document the neglect. Keep detailed records of any incidents of neglect, including dates, times, and descriptions of what occurred. Photographs and medical records can also serve as important evidence.
- Report the neglect. Notify the nursing home administration and relevant state agencies about the suspected negligence. This can prompt investigations and corrective actions.
- Seek medical attention. Ensure that the resident receives appropriate medical care to address any harm caused by the flu exposure.
- Consult with an attorney. An experienced medical malpractice attorney in Portland, OR can help you understand your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation. They can guide you through the legal process and advocate on your behalf.