How Gastroenteritis Spreads in Nursing Homes
Gastroenteritis is a viral infection that leads to signs and symptoms that are similar to what most people think of as the “stomach flu.” This particular intestinal infection gets spread by contact with an infected person or by consuming food or water that has been contaminated with the virus. Nursing homes that lack proper infection prevention protocols often facilitate the outbreak of gastroenteritis, and this can lead to deadly consequences for nursing home residents. A nursing negligence lawyer in Portland may be able to assist if your family is impacted by a gastroenteritis outbreak.
What is Gastroenteritis and How is it Spread?
Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically caused by viruses such as norovirus or rotavirus. Common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, and dehydration. The infection is very contagious and generally spreads rapidly, especially in communal living environments like nursing homes.
The primary ways gastroenteritis spreads include:
- Person-to-person contact. The virus can spread through direct contact with an infected person, such as touching their hands or sharing utensils.
- Contaminated food or water. Consuming food or water that has been contaminated with the virus can lead to infection.
- Surface contact. The virus can survive on surfaces such as doorknobs, bed rails, and medical equipment. Touching these contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth or face can spread the virus.
How Nursing Home Negligence Contributes to the Spread of Gastroenteritis
Nursing home negligence can significantly contribute to the spread of gastroenteritis. Proper infection control protocols are essential in preventing outbreaks, but negligence can undermine these efforts. Here are some ways negligence in nursing homes can lead to the spread of gastroenteritis:
- Inadequate hygiene practices. Staff members who do not wash their hands thoroughly and frequently can easily spread the virus from one resident to another.
- Poor food handling. Improper food storage, preparation, and handling can contaminate food and beverages with the virus, leading to widespread infection.
- Lack of cleaning and disinfection. Failing to regularly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces and communal areas allows the virus to linger and spread.
- Insufficient training. Staff members who are not adequately trained in infection control procedures may not take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of gastroenteritis.
- Delayed isolation. Not isolating infected residents promptly can lead to the virus spreading to other residents and staff members.
The Dangers of Allowing Gastroenteritis to Spread Uncontrollably in a Nursing Home
Allowing gastroenteritis to spread uncontrollably in a nursing home can have severe consequences. The close living quarters and high interaction levels between residents and staff create an environment where infections can spread quickly. Here are some of the dangers associated with uncontrolled spread:
- Severe dehydration. Gastroenteritis often leads to severe dehydration, especially in elderly residents who may already have underlying health conditions. Dehydration can cause serious complications, including kidney failure and shock.
- Compromised immune systems. Many nursing home residents have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to severe infections and prolonged illness.
- High mortality rates. Outbreaks of gastroenteritis in nursing homes can lead to increased mortality rates, particularly among residents who are frail or have chronic illnesses.
- Strain on healthcare resources. Widespread infection can overwhelm nursing home staff and medical resources, leading to inadequate care for all residents.
- Legal and financial repercussions. Nursing homes that do not implement adequate infection control measures may face legal action from affected residents and their families, as well as fines and loss of reputation.