Hospital-Acquired Infection in NICU from Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Caused by Contaminated Tap Water
Hand hygiene has become a vital tool in preventing the spread of infection in a health care setting. But what happens when the water used to wash those hands is contaminated? A story in the journal Healio highlights the findings of a report published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology. There was an outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) in 2013 which involved 15 patients and two deaths. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is bacteria that is found widely in the environment. Pseudomonas infections most commonly occur in people in the hospital and those with weakened immune systems.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted an infection control assessment and an environmental evaluation and case study, which revealed that the origin of the hospital-acquired infection was the non-sterile tap water from the faucets in the NICU. When this was discovered, they installed point of use water filters right away.
At McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC, we understand the dangers of hospital-acquired infections, and when our clients become injured because of an HAI, we are here to help them get justice. Our team of experienced medical malpractice attorneys in South Carolina represent clients in multiple states who have been hurt by medical negligence. To speak with an experienced lawyer, please call 803-327-7800, or fill out our contact form.
Randy is the former President of the South Carolina Association for Justice. He has been certified by the American Board of Professional Liability as a specialist in Medical Malpractice Law which is recognized by the South Carolina Bar. Randy has also been awarded the distinction of being a “Super Lawyer” 10 times in the last decade. He has over 25 years of experience helping injured people fight back against corporations, hospitals and wrong-doers.
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