Salem Hospital Issues Warning for Potential HIV and Hepatitis Exposure from Incorrectly Administered IVs
Salem Hospital has issued a warning to some patients who may have been exposed to HIV and hepatitis due to improperly administered intravenous (IV) treatments. The hospital has identified approximately 450 endoscopy patients who may have been at risk of contracting HIV, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B over a two-year period.
Despite the incident, Salem Hospital emphasizes that the likelihood of infection is “extremely small” and no cases of infection have been reported thus far. Endoscopy patients, who undergo visual imaging procedures on organs such as colonoscopies, cystoscopies, and laryngoscopies, are the individuals primarily affected by this potential exposure.
As soon as the issue was recognized, corrective measures were implemented, and the hospital’s parent company, Mass General Brigham, was promptly notified. Salem Hospital has taken immediate action by notifying all patients who may have been exposed to HIV and Hepatitis, establishing a toll-free hotline for clinicians to address any concerns, and providing free screenings to those affected.
The hospital has also informed their quality and infection control teams about the incident, ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to prevent such errors in the future. Salem Hospital acknowledges the impact on those affected and extends sincere apologies while affirming their commitment to delivering high-quality and compassionate healthcare to the community.
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