Doctronic

Hospital Safety: Protecting Yourself from Infections and Errors

Jerome Albert Ecker | MD

Medically reviewed by Jerome Albert Ecker | MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Duke University - Durham, NC on February 11th, 2025.

Key Takeaways

  • Healthcare-associated infections affect 1 in 31 hospitalized patients daily, with central line-associated bloodstream infections and catheter-associated urinary tract infections being the most preventable through proper protocols.

  • Medication errors occur in approximately 5% of hospitalized patients, with wrong dosage (41%) and omitted medications (30%) being the leading causes, often during shift changes or patient transfers.

  • Invasive devices like urinary catheters increase infection risk by 3-7% per day of use, which is why removal within 24-48 hours post-surgery is standard protocol when medically appropriate.

  • Hand hygiene compliance among healthcare workers averages only 40% globally, yet proper handwashing reduces transmission of resistant organisms like MRSA by up to 80%.

  • Surgical site infections develop in 2-5% of patients undergoing surgery, with risk factors including diabetes, obesity (BMI >30), smoking, and procedures lasting longer than 2 hours.

When you're admitted to a hospital, your primary focus is on recovering from your illness or injury. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential risks and take steps to ensure your safety during your stay. This guide will help you understand how to protect yourself from infections and medical errors while in the hospital.

Understanding Hospital-Acquired Infections

Hospital-acquired infections, also known as nosocomial infections, are infections that patients develop during their hospital stay. These infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and can range from mild to life-threatening. Some common types of hospital-acquired infections include:

  • Urinary tract infections

  • Surgical site infections

  • Pneumonia

  • Bloodstream infections

To reduce your risk of acquiring an infection while in the hospital, follow these tips:

  1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

  2. Encourage your healthcare providers to wash their hands before and after interacting with you.

  3. Keep your hospital room clean and tidy.

  4. Follow your healthcare team's instructions regarding wound care and dressing changes.

Hospital Safety: Protecting Yourself from Infections and Errors

Preventing Medical Errors

Medical errors can occur during any stage of your hospital stay, from diagnosis to treatment and medication administration. To minimize the risk of medical errors, take an active role in your care by:

  • Providing your healthcare team with a complete and accurate medical history.

  • Asking questions about your diagnosis, treatment plan, and medications.

  • Double-checking your medication doses and frequencies with your healthcare providers.

  • Ensuring that your healthcare team confirms your identity before administering any treatments or medications.

Remember, you are your own best advocate. Don't hesitate to speak up if something doesn't seem right or if you have concerns about your care.

Partnering with Your Healthcare Team

Effective communication with your healthcare team is essential for a safe hospital stay. Be sure to:

  • Express your concerns and preferences clearly.

  • Ask for clarification if you don't understand something.

  • Involve a trusted family member or friend in your care, especially if you feel overwhelmed or unable to advocate for yourself.

By working closely with your healthcare team and taking an active role in your care, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing a hospital-acquired infection or medical error.

Remember, your safety is a top priority during your hospital stay. By staying informed, vigilant, and proactive, you can help ensure a safer and smoother recovery.

For more information on hospital safety, visit:

The Bottom Line

Active patient involvement—asking about hand hygiene, confirming your identity before procedures, and questioning unfamiliar medications—can significantly reduce your risk of preventable complications during hospitalization. If you develop fever, unusual pain, or concerning symptoms after a hospital stay, Doctronic can help you quickly determine if these warrant immediate medical attention.

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