Bedsores are commonly seen in individuals who spend extended periods in bed without sufficient movement. Preventing these kinds of injuries is one of the primary reasons your loved one is in a nursing home. If you have concerns about bed sores on your loved one, the Butte nursing home abuse lawyers with Everett Cook Law are here to help.
What are Bedsores and How Do They Happen?
Bed sores are often called pressure sores. They are caused by damage to the skin and underlying tissue due to prolonged pressure, according to the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel. These commonly occur in nursing homes when residents receive negligent care that leaves them in the same position for too long. However, they may also occur in settings where medical equipment applies pressure to the skin without providing breaks in pressure for the area.
Some of the more common areas for bedsores include:
- Buttocks
- Tailbone, hips, or lower back
- Shoulder blades
- Back or sides of the head
- Back of the arms and legs
The location will vary based on the part of the body with the prolonged pressure. However, these are commonly the areas of the body where you might rest in bed or in a chair.
Identifying Stage 1 Bedsores
Bedsores have several stages of development based on the level of damage. A level one bedsore is the least severe, but it is still cause for concern and certainly a source of discomfort. The above source from the Mayo Clinic states that indicators of a stage one bedsore can include:
- Changes in texture or skin color
- Irritation or inflammation
- An area that is warm or cool to the touch
- Pus or other discharge
If you have concerns about any of these symptoms, please consult with your care team. From a legal perspective, it is beneficial to document any communication with the care team regarding these concerns and take photos when possible or appropriate.
Stage 1 Bedsore Treatment
Stage 1 bedsores can often resolve with little to no intervention once the individual changes position to take pressure from the area. When this is the case, you should see progress within 24-48 hours of adjusting the position.
However, if the area does not heal within 48 hours or you see signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, odorous discharge, or weeping, it is time to contact a doctor to determine the best course of action.
You Have Legal Recourse
In many situations, stage 1 bedsores are relatively minor. More minor pressure injuries, such as redness that does not subside when pressure is removed, may occur within hours and are not necessarily a sign of neglect. However, recurring problems or failing to address initial concerns that lead to more intense injuries are indicative of a bigger problem.
As soon as you are concerned about negligent nursing home care, it is smart to begin documenting contact and concerns. Bring attention to the issue with the facility. If you are worried that the situation will go unaddressed, you may choose to file a report with Montana Adult Protective Services and seek counsel from an attorney.