Nursing homes in Delaware must follow strict health guidelines to keep residents safe. Many older adults have weak immune systems, making them more likely to get sick. When staff do not follow infection control rules, diseases can spread quickly.
Common infection control failures
Many nursing homes struggle with infection control due to poor staff training and lack of resources. One common problem is staff failing to wash their hands properly. Germs spread easily when caregivers move from one resident to another without washing their hands. Another issue is dirty or improperly sanitized equipment, such as wheelchairs, bed rails, and medical devices. These surfaces can carry harmful bacteria and viruses.
Respiratory infections like pneumonia and COVID-19 can spread when staff do not wear masks or isolate sick residents. Some facilities fail to follow proper food handling procedures, leading to outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. Contaminated food can cause severe health problems, especially for seniors with weakened immune systems.
Another concern is antibiotic-resistant infections. Overuse of antibiotics in nursing homes has made some bacteria harder to treat. When infection control measures are weak, these dangerous bacteria can spread among residents. This makes it difficult to stop infections, leading to longer illnesses and higher death rates.
How poor infection control harms residents
Infections can cause serious complications for nursing home residents. A simple cold or flu can quickly turn into pneumonia, which is life-threatening for older adults. Residents who develop infections often need hospitalization, which can weaken them further. Some never recover fully and experience a decline in their overall health.
Bedsores and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are also common in nursing homes with poor infection control. When caregivers do not clean and reposition residents properly, bedsores develop. Open wounds can become infected and lead to serious complications like sepsis. UTIs can also become severe if left untreated, causing pain, confusion, and even kidney infections.
Families trust nursing homes to provide a safe environment for their loved ones. Nursing homes must take infection control seriously to protect vulnerable residents. When facilities fail to prevent infections, they put residents in danger and may be liable for any harm that results from their negligence.