Bedbugs Found on Cancer Patient in Michigan Hospital
The daughter of a cancer patient who entered a Michigan hospital for treatment was horrified when she discovered numerous bedbugs on her father’s body, in his room, and in his clothing. She reported that hospital personnel went into in what she described as “hazmat mode” and literally showered her father down with a hose.
A friend of the daughter attempted to get answers about the infestation, but hospital officials initially said that the infestation was lice and not bedbugs.
When the daughter and her friend questioned and asked if housekeeping was responsible and wanted to know the name of the person responsible for cleaning the patient’s bed, the hospital officials would not give them a name. They were told that an investigation was underway.
A spokesman for the hospital called the situation unfortunate and denied that the bedbugs were the fault of the hospital. He quantified his statement by saying the hospital follows strict guidelines to ensure that patients do not come in contact with bedbugs.
The hospital apologized to the patient and his family and issued this statement:
“We’re very sorry this happened. We do not believe this originated from inside our Emergency Department. It was caused by infested wet clothing that had been concealed under the mattress of a gurney. We do not know how the clothing got there in the first place. Prior to the gurney being returned to service, it was properly disinfected as is routinely done between patients.
“After discovering the clothing, we followed infection control protocol. We isolated and treated the patient, isolated and sanitized the gurney, and disposed of the clothing and bedding.”
Compliance Perspective
Failure to follow infection prevention and control protocols in a timely and professional manner in order to prevent or treat an infestation of bedbugs and/or spread of infectious organisms may be considered provision of substandard quality care in violation of state and federal regulations.
Discussion Points:
- Review policies and procedures regarding infection prevention and control protocols with a specific focus on potential bedbug or lice infestation.
- Train staff about how to discover and report bedbug or lice infestations.
- Periodically audit compliance with the facility’s protocols for cleaning/sanitizing equipment, i.e., beds used by previous residents, to ensure that staff are being thorough in completing the sanitizing process.
