Sepsis and Medical Malpractice
Sepsis is an infection in a patient's bloodstream that can be extremely serious if left untreated, causing permanent damage to their internal organs. Recent reports state that sepsis is one of the major contributors to death in emergency rooms and intensive care units all over the nation. Because this hospital-acquired infection can be preventable through the use of sanitary tools and the maintenance of a sanitary environment, a hospital may be held liable for any injuries that result from the contraction of this infection.
In order for hospitals to provide a reasonable duty of care to patients, doctors, nurses and other medical practitioners must operate in extremely hygienic conditions at all times. That way, sepsis and other nosocomial infections can be prevented. When this is not done, medical malpractice may have occurred. To learn if you have a viable case, contact the Chicago medical malpractice lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C. at 312-466-8200 today.
Symptoms of Sepsis
Common symptoms of sepsis include the following:
- Fever
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Decreased urination
- Pain in a patient's wrists, arms, elbows, back, knees, and ankle joints
- Reddish color rash with dark spots on the skin
- Disorientation or dizziness
There are certain patients who are especially vulnerable to sepsis, including newborns, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, such as AIDS or cancer patients. For these individuals, doctors must act with the utmost care in order to decrease the chance of an infection.
If you believe you contracted sepsis or another infection because of the negligent behavior of a medical professional, contact an attorney right away to begin a thorough investigation. If the judge finds the other party at fault, you may be able to gain financial compensation to help pay for any damages associated with your illness.
Contact Us
For more information about medical malpractice, sepsis, or septic shock, and your rights as an injured patient, call the Chicago personal injury lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C. at 312-466-8200 today.