Providing medical care at every level involves strict protocols that are designed to prevent unnecessary exposure to dangerous viruses and diseases. One of the most basic is to use disposable items such as saline bags and tubing once and to properly dispose of it so that any contamination that results will be limited to that one piece of equipment. Unfortunately, a nurse at Broward General Medical Center did not appear to follow that protocol, thereby exposing more than 1,800 people to dangerous diseases that includes HIV.
According to the Sun-Sentinel:
“More than 1,800 Broward General Medical Center patients who underwent heart stress tests since 2004 may have been exposed to HIV and other infectious diseases after a nurse knowingly reused medical supplies intended for one-time use.
Hospital officials said Monday they have identified 1,851 at-risk patients and are urging them to undergo follow-up screening to determine if they were infected.
Since 2004 until this month, the nurse — who was not identified — administered intravenous fluids during chemical cardiac stress tests with used saline bags and tubing. She later acknowledged she knew what she did was wrong, according to hospital officials.
The problem was discovered after someone anonymously called the hospital, spokeswoman Cathy Meyer said.”
The nurse was ultimately suspended, resigned and has been reported to the Florida Board of Nursing, but that action may not allow the hospital to avoid liability if someone contracts a disease based on this conduct. If you or someone you love has been harmed due to medical negligence, you need to contact Fort Lauderdale professional negligence lawyers who have spent more than 20 years fighting for the rights of those wrongfully exposed to dangers. Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Tue, Oct 6, 2009
Personal Injury, Professional Negligence