Common Infectious Diseases in Nebraska Nursing Homes and How to Prevent Them
When you think about nursing homes, you probably picture a safe place where older adults can live with dignity and receive the care they deserve.
But unfortunately, infectious diseases can spread quickly in these settings, putting vulnerable residents at serious risk. These illnesses can lead to life-threatening complications if not managed properly.
At The Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Law Firm, PC, LLO, we’ve seen how neglectful healthcare practices can make nursing home residents more susceptible to infections. That’s why we’re here to help you understand the risks and learn how to protect your loved ones.
Common Infectious Diseases in Nursing Homes
Nursing homes can become breeding grounds for infections due to close living quarters, weakened immune systems, and lapses in hygiene. Below are some of the most common infections that can threaten residents’ health.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are widespread in nursing homes due to factors like catheter use, inadequate hygiene, and natural age-related changes in the urinary tract. If left untreated, they can escalate to serious complications, including kidney damage and sepsis, which can be life-threatening.
Respiratory Tract Infections (RTIs)
Respiratory infections, including pneumonia, are a leading cause of illness and death in nursing homes. Risk factors include weakened immune systems, chronic lung issues, and difficulty swallowing. Quick detection and prompt treatment are essential to prevent complications.
- Pneumonia: This is one of the deadliest infections for nursing home residents and often stems from aspiration or underlying health issues.
- Influenza: Flu outbreaks can spread quickly, making annual vaccination a critical prevention tool.
- Tuberculosis (TB): While less common, TB poses a significant risk in communal settings, emphasizing the need for isolation and treatment when it is identified.
Gastrointestinal Infections
Gastrointestinal illnesses, such as norovirus and foodborne infections, are common in nursing homes. They often lead to dehydration and malnutrition, both of which can be severe for elderly residents.
Careful attention to food safety and hygiene is vital in minimizing these risks.
Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Skin infections, including pressure ulcers, are prevalent among nursing home residents. Poor hygiene, incontinence, and poor blood circulation can all contribute to these issues. If ignored, these infections can progress to sepsis, a dangerous and often fatal condition.
- MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus): This antibiotic-resistant infection is a frequent concern in nursing homes, particularly in residents with open wounds or weakened immune systems. Strict infection control measures are key to prevention.
- Clostridium difficile (C. diff): C. diff infections often occur in residents receiving antibiotics, leading to severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon. Proper antibiotic use and hygiene are essential to reduce these cases.
Factors Contributing to Disease Transmission in Nursing Homes
Nursing home residents face unique challenges that increase their risk of infection. Understanding these factors can help prevent the spread of disease.
Lack of Proper Hygiene and Infection Control Practices by Staff
Inconsistent hygiene practices, such as inadequate handwashing, improper use of protective equipment, and insufficient cleaning of shared spaces, can significantly increase the risk of disease transmission in nursing homes. Staff and residents both play a critical role in maintaining cleanliness to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses. Ensuring staff adhere to strict hand hygiene and infection control protocols is crucial to reducing these risks.
Close Proximity
Living in shared spaces means nursing home residents are often in close quarters, making it easier for infections to spread. If not addressed swiftly, a single case of illness can quickly lead to an outbreak.
Weakened Immune Systems
Older adults naturally have weaker immune systems, making it harder for them to fight off infections. Chronic illnesses and medications can further reduce their ability to recover from even minor exposures to germs.
Outbreaks and Epidemics
Once an infection takes hold, it can quickly escalate into an outbreak, putting all residents and staff at risk. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial to stopping the spread before it becomes unmanageable.
How to Prevent Infectious Diseases in Nursing Homes
Preventing infectious diseases in nursing homes requires consistent and constant efforts. These strategies are essential for protecting residents’ health.
Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Practices
Hand hygiene is the foundation of infection prevention. Regular and thorough handwashing by staff, residents, and visitors can significantly reduce the spread of germs. Staff should also follow strict hygiene protocols, including wearing gloves when providing care and promptly changing diapers to prevent infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs).
The proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), like gloves and masks, adds another layer of protection, especially during outbreaks. Regular cleaning and disinfection of common areas and high-touch surfaces also help minimize infection risks.
Vaccination
Vaccinations are critical in preventing outbreaks. Annual flu shots for residents and staff reduce the risk of influenza spreading. Pneumococcal and shingles vaccines are also important for high-risk residents, offering protection against severe infections.
Antibiotic Stewardship
Responsible use of antibiotics is essential to prevent antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics should only be used when necessary and prescribed carefully by healthcare providers to ensure effectiveness and minimize risks.
Staff Education and Training
Ongoing staff training on infection prevention practices ensures that everyone is informed and prepared. Regular health screenings for staff also help identify and address infections early, reducing the risk to residents.
Stand Up for Your Loved Ones in Nebraska: Contact Us
If you suspect that neglectful practices are putting your loved one at risk of a preventable infection, you don’t have to face this alone.
At The Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Law Firm, powered by Reed Law Offices, PC, LLO, we’re committed to fighting for the safety and rights of nursing home residents.
Call us today at (402) 933-0588 to learn how we can help protect your loved one. Together, we can ensure they receive the care and dignity they deserve.
Contact The Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Law Firm, PC, LLO
If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, don’t wait. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How to reach us
Omaha Office: 3032 South 87th Street, Omaha,
NE 68124
Lincoln Office: P.O. Box 57154, Lincoln, NE 68505
Email: legal2@reedlawomaha.com
Tel: (402) 933-0588
Fax: (402) 263-5077