Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are painful and can cause life-threatening medical complications. Elderly people with mobility problems are particularly susceptible to bedsores.
According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 159,000 nursing home residents in the United States had pressure ulcers in 2004.
There are several potential causes of bedsores in nursing homes. These include:
- Shear;
- Constant pressure;
- And friction.
Just because your loved one suffered bedsores does not necessarily mean that he or she received substandard care. However, if the pressure ulcers developed as a result of neglect, then you may have grounds for a personal injury claim against the at-fault facility or staff member.
If the incident happened in Louisiana, turn to Morris Bart, LLC. A personal injury lawyer in Alexandria will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim.
You or your family member may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and non-economic damages. Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Let’s take a closer look at three common causes of bedsores in nursing homes:
Shear
According to Mayo Clinic, shear occurs when two surfaces move against each other in opposite directions. This often happens in hospitals and nursing homes when patients slide down elevated beds.
In this situation, the skin over the tailbone may stay in place while the bone itself moves down. This can result in damage to blood vessels and tissue, and can make the area more vulnerable to pressure injuries.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Constant Pressure
Skin and tissues that are trapped between bone and the surface of a wheelchair or a bed are vulnerable to bedsores. The pressure of the body on the surface can prevent blood from flowing through capillaries. This can starve the tissues of oxygen and other nutrients, thus causing damage to skin and other tissues.
Areas of the body that lack padding from muscle or fat are particularly susceptible to this type of pressure ulcer.
Friction
Friction bedsores occur when the skin drags across a surface. This may happen when a caretaker negligently moves a bedridden patient. Moist skin is particularly susceptible to this type of injury.
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Responding to Bedsores in Nursing Homes
If you notice that your loved one is suffering from bedsores, it is important that you take immediate action. Although the problem might not be related to nursing home negligence, it is critical that you find out and take steps to resolve the issue.
Discuss the problem with nursing home staff, and create a plan to prevent bedsores from developing in the future. If you believe that a caretaker’s negligence caused the pressure ulcers, then call The Office of Aging and Adult Services hotline at.
If the incident occurred in Louisiana, contact Morris Bart, LLC to find out if you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. An Alexandria injury attorney will evaluate your case, interview staff members and residents, and explain your legal options. Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
