Bedsores (Pressure Sores)
Bedsores are often a sign of neglect and poor treatment. A bedsore is a type of ulcer that can develop when a person is in the same position for an extended period of time (such as when a person is in a wheelchair) and there is prolonged pressure on a specific area of the body. For this reason, bedsores are sometimes referred to as “pressure sores.”
Unfortunately, many nursing home residents are unable to move well on their own, and thus must rely on nursing home caregivers to ensure that they are turned or moved so that bedsores do not develop. When this assistance is not provided, the pressure of a person’s body weight on the bed, wheel chair, or other item supporting the person can prevent adequate blood supply to the skin and underlying tissue at the “pressure point.” When this condition lasts for a continued period of time, a bedsore can develop.
Bedsores Can Be Severe and Life-Threatening
Bedsores can be classified into 4 different stages based upon severity as defined by The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel. These stages range from discoloration in Stage 1 to open ulcers that result in large-scale loss of tissue and wounds in Stage 4 that may expose muscle, bones, and tendons.
Severe bedsores can lead to sepsis (bacteria entering the bloodstream, which can cause organ failure), cellulitis, and bone and joint infections. In some cases, bedsores can even lead to cancer which may require surgery. Even in cases that do not lead to these injuries, bedsores can often mean weeks or months of painful recovery.
If a Loved One Has Suffered From (or Is Suffering From) Bedsores Which Developed at a Nursing Home Facility, Call Us
We will thoroughly investigate the cause of the bedsores, and can advise you as to what legal options may exist for recovery against those who have caused injury.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic, Bedsores (pressure sores), //www.mayoclinic.com/health/bedsores/DS00570