Hand Washing Lacking in Nursing Homes

Poor hand washing by staffs who work with elderly patients is an increasing concern in nursing homes, according to a new study.

The New York Times reports that a University of Pittsburgh study found the number of nursing homes cited for deficiencies in “hand hygiene” - washing hands - increased from 7.4 percent in 2002 to almost 12 percent in 2009.

This is a disturbing trend especially because the elderly are more vulnerable to picking up infections.

The study found that understaffing and insufficient training played a role in poor hand hygiene. However, there are other factors as well. Nursing homes in states with low Medicaid reimbursement rates are more prone to such unhygienic practices, report the Times.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by nursing home negligence or elder abuse, call Sokolove Law today to learn more about pursuing a nursing home abuse lawsuit.

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