HAIs can cause social, emotional pain

Many patients described 'feeling like a leper'


The consequences of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) include souring social relationships, and leading some healthcare providers to distance themselves from affected patients, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.

In a review in the American Journal of Infection Control, researchers at Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland looked at 17 studies from five countries addressing five common types of HAIs, focusing on patient experiences.

According to the review, many patients experienced an emotional response to their diagnosis and described “feeling dirty,” “having the plague,” or “feeling like a leper.” 

Patients with nearly all infection types reported a fear of transmitting their infection to others, which affected their personal and workplace relationships. 

Read the article.

 



August 24, 2018


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Designing for Caregiver-Centered Support Spaces

When healthcare environments are designed to meet the needs of caregivers and patients, everyone who relies on the system experiences better outcomes.


Novant Health Gets Approval for Wesley Chapel Medical Center

The 32-bed hospital will be located in Monroe and is expected to be completed in 2030.


Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians Falls Victim to Data Breach

On February 2, 2026, Rocky Mountain confirmed that certain patient information may have been compromised because of a data security incident. 


The Disconnect Between EVS and Clinical Teams

A recent study shows that EVS feels disconnected from the clinical community, leading to negative experiences. 


Nemours Children's Hospital Opens Institute for Maternal Fetal Health in Delaware

The Institute for Maternal Fetal Health represents a comprehensive approach to supporting expectant patients who receive a complex diagnosis during pregnancy.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.