RISK OF INFECTION AT SURGICAL CENTERS
The Chicago medical malpractice attorneys at the Law Offices of Jeffrey J. Kroll read some disturbing news lately. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Illinois health officials have found same-day surgery centers to pose deadly health risks. Some of the routine culprits include doctors who dangle surgical masks around their necks and leave their hair exposed during surgery. However, Illinois inspectors have identified numerous other short cuts that lead to the spread of dangerous bacteria and viruses, including failures to properly sterilize surgical instruments before and after surgeries.
What is most disturbing is that out of the "21 Illinois surgery centers inspected over the past year, 14 — or two-thirds — were cited for infection-control problems." Since a 2008 hepatitis C outbreak in Las Vegas, which officials believe to be linked to unsafe clinic practices, federal health officials have stepped up inspection guidelines for surgical centers. Still, thirty-six Illinois surgical centers have yet to be inspected under the new guidelines.
What can you do to protect yourself? Always choose accredited surgical centers before undergoing any surgical procedures. You can also contact the Illinois Department of Public Health to find out if a particular surgical center has had problems in the past.
If you have suffered a personal injury after undergoing treatment at an outpatient surgical center, the Chicago medical malpractice attorneys at the Law Offices of Jeffrey J. Kroll may be able to help. We are experienced trial attorneys and settlement negotiators. We have recovered million-dollar settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients in personal injury and medical malpractice lawsuits.
At the Law Offices of Jeffrey J. Kroll, we will take into account the circumstances of your case and help you decide whether to file a personal injury or medical malpractice claim. Contact us at (312) 676-7222, or fill out our contact form to set up a personal consultation
