Casey Gerry Law Blog

The CDC reports that there were 1,737,125 estimated healthcare-associated infections in 2002. The CDC estimates that number has risen at least ten-fold from then.  From those 1.7 million infections, around 99,000 resulted in patient deaths.  Bloodstream infections (Bactereremia) account for 14% off all infections.  Bloodstream infections are more commonly acquired while being treated for another medical problem.
 
Bactereremia include Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, Haemophilus, and Esherichia coli (E. coli). Symptoms of bacteremia may include:
 
•    fever over 101 °F
•    chills
•    malaise
•    abdominal pain
•    nausea
•    vomiting
•    diarrhea
•    anxiety
•    shortness of breath
•    confusion
 
Untreated, Bactereremia can lead to septic shock which may result in death. A blood test can determine whether a patient has a bloodstream infection.
 
During medical procedures, the burden falls on medical professionals to minimize the number and duration of invasive procedures, to reduce patients' exposure to sources of bacteria when being treated, and to use scrupulous technique.
 
VA Hospitals recently admitted to exposing thousands of patients to HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B and C from improperly sterilized equipment. If you suspect you may have been infected, please check with your healthcare provider.