Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are common among the elderly, especially those living in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities.
These sores are deep wounds that form when soft tissue stays compressed against a hard surface for extended periods of time, cutting off blood flow to the tissue below.
The skin and muscles can die, sometimes leading to amputation or other permanent disability; it’s an extremely serious condition that requires immediate medical attention to prevent lasting harm or even death.
Bedsores can be one of the surest signs of neglect in nursing homes, but they’re not always recognized as such.
If you’re concerned about your loved one being mistreated in their nursing home, pay close attention to these signs of nursing home neglect to help you determine whether your loved one may be suffering from abuse or neglect that could lead to bedsores or worse.
Read on to learn more about the signs, symptoms, and effects of nursing home bedsores and how to prevent them in your loved ones.
The appearance of bedsores
Bedsores are a common occurrence in nursing homes.
They are usually the result of neglect or abuse. If you see bedsores on a loved one, it is important to take action.
Bedsores can be a sign of other problems, such as dehydration or malnutrition.
If left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems, including infection and sepsis.
If you suspect that your loved one is being neglected or abused, don’t hesitate to contact the authorities.
Causes, prevention, and treatment options
Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or decubitus ulcers, are a common but serious problem for nursing home residents.
They are caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, which can occur when a person is bedridden or has limited mobility.
Bedsores are often a sign of neglect, as they can be prevented with proper care.
If you suspect that your loved one is being neglected, it is important to speak up and get help.
Many resources are available to help you if you suspect abuse or neglect in a nursing home.
Why do people develop bedsores while they are in a nursing home?
Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or decubitus ulcers, are areas of skin that break down when they are constantly exposed to the same pressure.
This can happen when a person is confined to a bed or wheelchair for long periods of time without being moved.
When people do not move, the blood flow to their skin decreases, and the skin begins to break down. Bedsores usually develop on bony areas of the body, such as the heels, hips, and tailbone.
Contact attorneys if you find any type of nursing abuse or neglect
If you have a loved one in a nursing home, it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of abuse and neglect.
One red flag is bedsores. Also known as pressure ulcers, these painful sores can form when a person is confined to a bed or chair for long periods without moving.
If you see bedsores on your loved one, it’s important to take action immediately and contact an experienced nursing home abuse attorney.
Our nursing home abuse attorneys can help you investigate the situation and hold the responsible parties accountable.