Urinary tract infections account for about 20% of infections in long-term care facilities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dangerous urinary tract infections can develop for many reasons, but sometimes it is because of catheter use.
Catheter Use in Kentucky Nursing Homes
Foley catheters should never be used solely for the convenience of nursing home staff. However, a nursing home resident may require a catheter to empty his bladder because he:
- Has a medical condition that makes it painful or impossible to get out of bed to use the bathroom
- Needs to have his fluid intake and output carefully measured due to a medical condition
- Is terminally ill and it is too painful or difficult to get out of bed
In any of these situations, nursing home staff must follow proper policies and procedures to make sure that the catheter is cleaned correctly and that the nursing home resident is appropriately monitored for complications.
Catheter Infections and Septic Shock
Without proper cleaning, changing, and care, a catheter-related infection can develop. These infections include:
- Cystitis
- Pyelonephritis
- Bloodstream infections
- Septic shock
Septic shock is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a person has a severe reaction to sepsis. People with septic shock experience dangerously low blood pressure in addition to other symptoms of infection such as fever, fast heart rate, and rapid breathing.
Nursing home staff have a responsibility to prevent infections and sepsis in residents with catheters. Understaffed nursing homes, homes that don’t provide necessary staff training, and staff members who fail to comply with catheter policies and procedures may allow dangerous infections and sepsis to occur.
If your loved one is hurt by or dies from sepsis or septic shock, we encourage you to contact our experienced nursing home injury lawyers as soon as possible for a free consultation about your rights. Call us any time or fill out our online contact form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.