Bedsores or Pressure Ulcers Claims Lawyer
One of the signs of neglect in nursing homes is the appearance of bedsores. Also called pressure sores or ulcers, these painful skin lesions are caused by prolonged positioning when confined to a bed. Bedsores are considered preventable when adequate care is provided. Unfortunately, many residents in nursing homes are inflicted with bedsores caused by poor care, abuse or neglect. Residents and their families may be eligible to seek legal claims against nursing homes for neglect if they have pressure ulcers.
Preventing bedsores should be a priority for personnel at nursing homes. It is well known that those who are bedridden or have limited or no mobility are susceptible to pressure ulcers. To prevent these lesions from occurring, patients need to be turned and repositioned to alleviate pressure on the same areas. They also need adequate nutrition and hydration to help maintain healthy skin and tissue. When pressure sores are present, it is a sign of negligence in care and a cause for concern.
Bedsores or Pressure Ulcers Negligence
Preventing bedsores should be a top priority for personnel at nursing homes, given the heightened vulnerability of individuals who are bedridden or have limited mobility to pressure ulcers. These ulcers, often referred to as pressure sores or bedsores, result from prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body, leading to tissue damage. To effectively mitigate the risk of bedsores and promote overall well-being among patients, nursing home staff must implement comprehensive preventive measures. These measures include:
- Regular Repositioning: Patients should be regularly turned and repositioned to alleviate pressure on the same areas of their bodies. This rotation helps distribute pressure more evenly, reducing the likelihood of tissue breakdown and the development of bedsores.
- Skin Inspection and Care: Routine skin inspections are crucial for early detection of any signs of skin breakdown or pressure sores. Additionally, meticulous skincare practices, such as keeping the skin clean, moisturized and free from irritants, are essential for maintaining skin integrity and preventing lesions.
- Adequate Nutrition and Hydration: Proper nutrition and hydration are pivotal in supporting skin health and tissue integrity. Patients should receive balanced diets rich in essential nutrients and an adequate intake of fluids to promote hydration, which aids in tissue repair and regeneration.
- Specialized Support Surfaces: Using specialized support surfaces, such as pressure-relieving mattresses or cushions, can help distribute pressure more evenly and reduce the risk of developing bedsores.
When pressure sores occur, they not only signify a failure in preventive care but also serve as a warning sign of potential neglect. Timely intervention and appropriate treatment are imperative to prevent further complications and promote healing. Negligence in addressing pressure ulcers can lead to serious health complications, including infections and tissue necrosis, underscoring the critical importance of proactive care strategies in nursing home settings.
Dangers of Pressure Sores
Pressure sores are not only very painful for the patient, but they also put the health of the patient at risk. Once a bedsore develops, it can be difficult to heal. There is a risk of infection, which can lead to serious complications such as septic shock or sepsis. In severe cases, a patient with pressure ulcers may be at risk for death if the infection is not controlled. They may need extensive wound care, hospitalization and surgery to treat their bedsores. This is unacceptable, especially when the condition is caused by neglectful care from a nursing home.
If you or a family member has dealt with pressure ulcers due to poor care or neglect at a nursing home, you may be eligible to seek compensation for injuries. Our compassionate legal team at Ligori & Ligori Attorneys at Law urges you to contact us to discuss your claim. If we take your case, we will aggressively fight on your behalf to obtain restitution and damages for the injuries caused by negligent nursing home care. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.