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Elderly individuals living in nursing homes or care facilities are often vulnerable to neglect and mistreatment, including the development of bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers. Bedsores occur when prolonged pressure on the skin reduces blood flow, leading to skin damage and tissue death. In many cases, bedsores are preventable with proper care and attention. Unfortunately, the presence of bedsores can sometimes indicate negligence or abuse in elderly care settings. If your loved one has developed bedsores while under the care of a nursing home or facility, it may be time to contact a bedsore lawyer.
1. Signs Of Neglect And Abuse
While bedsores can develop even with diligent care, they are often a sign of neglect. Nursing home staff are responsible for regularly repositioning patients who are immobile, ensuring they receive proper nutrition and hydration, and maintaining good hygiene. Failure to do so increases the risk of bedsores and other health complications.
If your loved one develops bedsores and you notice other signs of neglect, such as poor hygiene, unexplained weight loss, dehydration, or unsanitary living conditions, this could indicate a broader pattern of mistreatment. In such cases, it’s important to contact a bedsore lawyer to investigate whether your loved one has suffered due to negligence.
2. When Bedsores Progress To Serious Stages
Bedsores are classified into four stages based on their severity:
- Stage 1: Red, unbroken skin that doesn’t lighten when pressed.
- Stage 2: An open sore or blister that affects the top layers of skin.
- Stage 3: A deeper wound affecting the tissue beneath the skin.
- Stage 4: A severe wound extending to muscles, tendons, or bones.
While stage 1 or 2 bedsores may be treatable if caught early, more advanced stages can lead to severe complications, such as infections, sepsis, or even death. If your loved one’s bedsores progress beyond the initial stages, it’s a sign that proper medical attention has not been provided, and you should contact a bedsore lawyer to determine whether legal action is appropriate.
3. Unresponsive Nursing Home Staff
If you’ve raised concerns with nursing home staff about your loved one’s care or bedsores and they’ve failed to take corrective action, it may be time to seek legal assistance. Lack of responsiveness from the facility’s administration or staff can suggest a disregard for patient well-being, indicating potential negligence.
A bedsore lawyer from Davis & Brusca, LLC can help you file a complaint with the nursing home, conduct an investigation, and hold the facility accountable for substandard care. By seeking legal help early, you can ensure that your loved one receives the attention they need and prevent further harm.
Conclusion
Bedsores are often a warning sign of deeper issues within elderly care facilities. If your loved one has developed bedsores due to neglect or mistreatment, it’s crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible. Contacting a bedsore lawyer can help you hold the nursing home accountable, ensure proper care for your loved one, and prevent future instances of neglect.