Understanding Georgia Hospital Acquired Infections Lawsuits

In recent years, there has been increasing awareness and concern regarding hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), especially in states like Georgia. In fact, the Georgia Department of Public Health reports that 1 in 25 hospital patients has at least one healthcare-associated infection. HAI is also the fifth leading cause of death in acute-care hospitals in the US.

These infections pose significant health risks to patients and can also lead to complicated legal struggles for patients and their families. Conley Griggs Partin LLP sheds some light on the issue of HAIs, the legal recourse available in Georgia and what individuals need to know about pursuing lawsuits related to these infections.

What Are Hospital-Acquired Infections?

Hospital-acquired infections are infections that patients contract while receiving treatment for other conditions within a healthcare facility. According to data compiled in 2024, out of 129 acute-care hospitals in Georgia:

• 51.94% reported SIRs for catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI)
• 45.74% for central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI)
• 72.87% for Clostridium difficile (CDI)
• 42.64% for methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
• 25.58% for surgical site infection (SSI) Abdomen
• 42.64% for SSI Colon

These infections can stem from various factors, including inadequate sterilization of medical equipment, poor hygiene practices among healthcare workers, delays in administering appropriate medications and unnecessary use of invasive devices.

The impact of HAIs can be severe, leading to prolonged hospital stays, additional medical costs and in some cases, even death.

The Legal Landscape in Georgia

In Georgia, patients who contract HAIs may have grounds for a lawsuit against the hospital or healthcare provider if negligence can be proven. Here are the three main factors of an HAI lawsuit:

1. Establishing Negligence: To succeed in an HAI lawsuit, the patient must show that the healthcare provider failed to meet the standard of care—meaning what a reasonably competent medical professional would have done under similar circumstances. This often involves providing expert testimony to establish what constitutes the standard of care in infection control and prevention.
2. Causation and Damages: The patient must also demonstrate that the HAI directly resulted from the provider’s negligence and that this infection caused harm, whether physical, emotional or financial.
3. Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit is two years. This means that patients must act quickly if they believe they have a case.

Atlanta, GA, Hospital Acquired Infections Lawsuit Injury Lawyer

Navigating the complexities of malpractice law can be daunting. Patients and their families can find the legal acumen and experience they need from Conley Griggs Partin LLP. Our Hospital Acquired Infections Lawsuit Injury Lawyers handle medical malpractice and hospital acquired infections cases in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. We can:

• Assess the viability of the case
• Gather necessary evidence and medical records
• Obtain expert testimonies
• Negotiate settlements or represent you in court if necessary

If you or a loved one has experienced an HAI from a Georgia healthcare facility, reach out to Conley Griggs Partin LLP to discuss your options and ensure your rights are protected.