Bed Sores

Bed sores, also known as pressure sores, pressure ulcers, or decubitus (lying down) ulcers, are lesions on the skin caused by lack of movement, or remaining in one position for too long. Elderly people should not have to suffer bed sores, but bed sores can occur in residents of nursing homes who are being neglected by their caretakers. If you suspect your loved one in a nursing home is suffering neglect due to bed sores, contact us immediately. We will fight for your loved one and get them the medical assistance they need while also holding the nursing home responsible. This includes seeking compensation for your loved one’s pain and suffering.

Bed Sores Usually Point to Neglect

Bed sores can be caused by staying in one position for too long. These sores can occur if a nursing home patient is continuously in a wheelchair, or bedridden. Bed sores are prevented by encouraging residents to move, or helping to reposition, or turn residents who can’t move themselves. While there may be cases where bed sores may occur more frequently due to the status of a resident’s health, preventative and restorative care should still be given to these residents. In any case, if someone in a nursing home develops bed sores, there is a problem with their care. The presence of bed sores on a nursing home resident can be an indication that there is an issue with the quality of their care.

Bed sores can occur to people who are unconscious, immobile, or bedridden, or unable to sense pain. Bedsores are ulcers. They occur on skin areas that are under pressure from sitting in a wheelchair or lying in bed. Bed sores carry the risk of developing an infection, which can lead to serious complications such as sepsis. Sepsis is a deadly infection which can put your loved one in danger. Nursing home residents with diabetes, poor nutrition, and circulation problems are at a higher risk.

How to Prevent Bed Sores in Nursing Homes

There are some key ways to prevent residents from developing bed sores,

• Make sure they have a well-padded place to rest

• Make sure residents are properly hydrated

• Make sure the position of residents is moved regularly to prevent pressure on one spot on their bodies.

• Inspect residents regularly for signs of bed sores.

• Make sure the environment is clean and dry.

Bed Sores Are Also Known by their Stages of Development

Stage 1: Unbroken, darkened patch of skin which may hurt to touch. It will become an ulcer (or bleeding injury) if left untreated. The affected person may complain that the sore itches, hurts, or burns.

Stage 2: The area appears more damaged and can have a scrape, blister, or open sore. The affected person complains of substantial pain the surrounding skin may be discolored.

Stage 3: Affected area has a “crater-like” appearance caused by damage below the skin.

Stage 4: Affected area has a large wound present and is severely damaged. Tendons, joints, muscles, and bones can be included. There is a major risk of infection.

Check Your Loved Ones for Bed Sores

Bed sores often occur on the tailbone or hips, heels, back of the head, shoulder blades, backs and sides of knees, and elbows. You should ask your loved one if they feel any pain, itchiness, or burning in these areas or if they have any new sores. Be aware of pain your loved one might not be talking about.

While bedsores may not always be completely prevented, it is important that bed sores are properly treated and taken care of when they do occur. You should be informed and told the plan of action by the nursing home if your loved one develops bed sores. It is important to be made aware of the condition and know what is being done to fix it. Not being informed of the condition of your loved one is another sign of abuse or neglect.

Think your loved one is the victim of bed sores due to nursing home neglect? Contact us immediately to get the help and compensation your loved one needs. We will be able to provide answers and advice on what you need to do to help your loved one who has experienced neglect or abuse in a nursing home. Call us at 918-728-8888 today. Jeff Martin and associates is here to help.

Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/bedsores