Nursing homes provide an invaluable service for people who require skilled care around the clock. Because of the love and dedication provided by the staff, family members can have peace of mind knowing their loved ones’ needs will be met.
So when a resident develops a bedsore, their family may wonder how it happened and whether the facility could have prevented it. Not every bedsore is the result of neglect. However, when nursing homes fail to provide adequate appropriate care and a resident suffers harm as a result, the nursing home may face legal liability.
What causes bedsores?
Bedsores typically develop on people with limited mobility who spend most of their time in bed or a wheelchair. Continued pressure, especially on bony areas such as tailbones, hips, heels, elbows and shoulders, eventually causes ulcers to develop. They can be painful, difficult to treat and, in severe cases, lead to serious infections and other complications.
A bedsore doesn’t automatically mean the nursing home was negligent. Some residents are more vulnerable and may develop pressure ulcers despite staff intervention.
However, neglect may be a concern when a facility fails to take preventative measures, such as:
- Regularly repositioning a resident who can’t move independently
- Monitoring a resident’s skin for early signs of pressure ulcers
- Ignoring redness, swelling or other changes in the skin
- Providing appropriate mattresses, cushions or other pressure-relieving equipment
- Keeping a resident’s skin clean and dry
- Providing adequate nutrition and fluids
- Following the resident’s personalized care plan
- Obtaining appropriate medical treatment after a pressure ulcer develops
- Properly documenting or communicating a resident’s change in condition
In some cases, the problem may extend beyond a single employee. Inadequate staffing, poor training, ineffective supervision or failures in the facility’s policies and procedures may also contribute to the neglect.
If you believe your loved one’s bedsore may be the result of neglect, it’s crucial to take immediate action. First, ensure they receive the appropriate medical attention. Next, speak with someone who can review your situation and discuss potential legal action. A prompt response can help protect your loved one’s health and rights.
