We expect that our loved ones will receive the best care possible when they live in a nursing home. Sadly, nursing home care sometimes falls short of our expectations. Recently, a lawsuit was filed by a family on behalf of their loved one, who died as a result of alleged negligent care in a nursing home. The man died after complications from pressure ulcers that were acquired while at the facility.
Pressure Ulcers
Pressure ulcers, also called bedsores or pressure sores, are painful red marks that appear on the skin. They are typically caused by the constant rubbing of bedding or other items on the same place on the skin. A red mark forms, which can quickly worsen. Pressure ulcers are categorized based on their severity. Stage I and II pressure ulcers are the least problematic, while stage III and IV sores are serious. As pressure sores worsen, the skin breaks open, and an infection can occur.
Infections Caused by Pressure Ulcers
Pressure sores are painful, but in their beginning stages, they are not dangerous. The danger occurs when pressure sores are not promptly treated and they are allowed to worsen. Once a bedsore deepens, the area becomes difficult to treat, and an infection is likely to happen. If an infection does occur, it should be treated immediately. The infection could become worse, and in some cases, it can cause a blood infection, called sepsis. Sepsis is a medical emergency and quickly damages the body’s organs.
Infections in the Elderly
Unfortunately, the elderly are not always able to adequately defend against infections. Their immune systems may be weakened, and they may be suffering from other medical ailments that cause infections to become more severe. Also, they may not always respond well to antibiotics. These factors make infections dangerous for those who are older, which is why bedsores should be prevented in nursing home settings, and if they do occur, they should be immediately treated.
Prevention of Pressure Ulcers
Nursing homes should take the necessary precautions to prevent pressure ulcers from occurring in the first place. This is done through vigilant care and proper medical attention. Bedsores often form on those who are bedridden and unable to move about on their own. These individuals require repositioning on a regular basis to prevent sores from forming. Caregivers should be aware of what to look for in the early stages of bedsores. If a pressure ulcer is noticed, it requires immediate assessment by a doctor. The physician should put a treatment plan in place to keep the sore from worsening, and to keep new sores from forming. The appearance of bedsores on elderly nursing home residents is often a sign of neglect. Nursing homes must take the proper precautions to keep patients from getting sores, and to promptly seek medical care if a bedsore forms.
Get Help From a Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer in Las Vegas
If your loved one suffered neglect in a nursing home, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an experienced elder abuse lawyer at the Matt Pfau Law Group today to discuss your case today.
