How to Stay Safe During Your Stay In the Hospital

When you think about a hospital, you likely think about a clean, sterile building that is stockpiled with medical equipment. Although this is accurate in most situations, there is still a risk that you can contract further ailments from your time in the hospital. If you or a loved one has to be in a medical facility for an extensive period of time, it is important that you take the adequate steps to prevent further illnesses from occurring. From the dangers of surgical negligence to the onset of pneumonia, there are many common dilemmas that compromise the health and safety of patients. In this article, we will share ways that you can stay safe during your hospital stay. Image Source

Shockingly, one in 10 people admitted to the hospital will be diagnosed with a hospital-acquired infection (HAI). HAI’s can be transferred between roommates and surfaces, especially in an ICU setting. These infections are highly contagious, allowing them to easily spread among patients in a facility. The severity of this infection varies from pneumonia to urinary tract infections. Most commonly, this infection occurs in eldery patients. Your immune system is compromised when you are in the hospital. Rather than waiting to acquire an infection, ask for your room to receive advanced cleaning protocol. In addition, wash your hands, use sanitizing products, and wear a mask whenever it is possible.

When you spend days lying in bed, your body becomes weak. If possible, try to move throughout the day. Whether you take short laps down the hallway or do minor exercises while laying in bed, these movements will help to activate your muscles. In addition, simply sitting up rather than lying down can help to bring awareness to your body. Your bones and muscles need to move so that they have the capacity to support your weight as you sit and stand.

If you are going to have surgery, it is important that you have a thorough conversation with your surgeon before the procedure. In addition, get a second opinion and ensure that other trustworthy surgeons would take a similar approach. When you have a direct conversation and develop a relationship with your provider, they will be more likely to handle your procedure with care. Each year, it is estimated that over 100,000 medical malpractice situations occur in hospitals across the globe. Surgical negligence is a real reality that harms the livelihood of people across the map. By having thorough conversations with your surgeon, you can lessen the risk of a poorly executed surgery.

Being in the hospital is not an enjoyable experience. Although we need the care and service that these facilities provide, it is important that you take extra precautions to maintain your health and prevent further infection. By having thorough conversations, asking for advanced cleaning, and moving your body, you have a better likelihood of staying safe during your hospital stay.