Bed Sores

Bedsores, also known as pressure sores, decubitus ulcers and pressure ulcers, are one of the many signs of nursing home abuse, nursing home neglect, or medical malpractice in a hospital. Bedsores are caused when there is unrelieved pressure to the skin and can cause serious health problems like infections and other life-threatening injuries. They occur most frequently to areas of the body where bone and skin are very close in contact, such as the hips, back, elbow, ankles, and heels. Nursing home residents and people staying at a hospital are at high risk for bedsores because they often times remain sedentary in a bed or wheelchair.

According to the CDC as many as 1 out of 10 residents in nursing homes currently have a bedsore. That alarming statistic just shows the lack of attention being given to residents at care facilities. Bedsores are serious health concerns and once identified they need to be treated immediately. You should also contact a nursing home abuse lawyer due to the nursing home or hospital's negligence.

The medical malpractice lawyers at McIver Brown Law Firm are experts in bedsore cases and can help you and your loved one get the justice and financial compensation you deserve. Fill out the contact form on the right side of this page for a free consultation or call toll free at 1-800-516-4783.

It is best to prevent a bedsore before it starts, because they are often at a very advanced stage of bedsore once noticed and require long slow treatment. It is said that the best treatment for a bedsore is prevention.

Tips for Bedsore Prevention:

Change positions regularly, every 15 minutes if you are in a wheelchair and at least every two hours if you are in a bed. It also helps to avoid laying directly on your hip bones; try to lay at a 30 degree angle to reduce pressure to the hips. Avoid laying with a raised head of more than 30 degrees as this encourages the body to slip down and raises the risk of friction injuries. Try using a pressure reducing mattress if you must remain in a bed every day.

Inspect skin daily. Inspecting the skin is a great prevention tool to incorporate into your daily routine. Also keep skin clean and dry. If you have bandages also make sure they are changed daily. If you notice any skin damage, foul smell, infections, or tenderness you should receive medical attention immediately.

Pay close attention to nutrition. Malnutrition can lead to bedsores as well as other diseases and illnesses. It is essential to get enough calories, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals in your diet. Consult a dietitian to help come up with an eating plan that appeals to your food preferences while supplying the necessary nutrients.

Try to exercise every day. Exercising increases blood flow throughout the body, as well as promotes a positive mood and socialization; all three are important while in a nursing home. You should consult with a physical therapist for an exercise program that is most beneficial to you.