top of page

Bedsores and Detecting Nursing Home Neglect

Writer's picture: Gibbs & SellersGibbs & Sellers

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are skin lesions that can occur when a person is confined to a bed or wheelchair for an extended period of time. Bedsores are a common problem in Alabama nursing homes, where residents may be unable to move or take care of themselves properly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 2.5 million people in the United States develop bedsores each year. This issue can be especially painful for elderly care home residents as it compounds other health problems they may already be facing.

Causes of bedsores

Bedsores are caused by a combination of factors, including poor hygiene, poor nutrition, and lack of movement. Poor hygiene can lead to skin irritation and infection, which can increase the risk of bedsores. Poor nutrition can also increase the risk of bedsores, as it can lead to weakened skin and decreased healing ability. Finally, lack of movement can lead to decreased circulation, which can increase the risk of bedsores.

Effects of bedsores

The effects of bedsores can be serious. Bedsores can cause pain and discomfort for the patient, as well as increased risk of infection and sepsis. Additionally, bedsores can lead to increased medical costs and longer hospital stays.

Prevention of bedsores

There are several ways to prevent bedsores. Proper hygiene is essential, as it can help to reduce the risk of skin irritation and infection. Proper nutrition is also important, as it can help to strengthen the skin and improve healing ability. Finally, regular movement is vital, as it can help to increase circulation and reduce the risk of bedsores.

Signs of nursing home neglect to look for

Apart from bedsores, other signs of neglect to look for include malnutrition, dehydration, and other medical issues. Residents may also display signs of emotional distress, such as withdrawal from activities they used to enjoy or changes in behavior.

Furthermore, a lack of cleanliness, inadequate staffing and a lack of attention to medical needs can accompany bedsores in a nursing home patient. It is critical to be aware of these signs and to take steps to ensure that your loved ones are receiving the care they need.

Bedsores and nursing home neglect

Bedsores are a common problem in nursing homes, caused by a combination of factors such as poor hygiene, poor nutrition, and lack of movement. Nursing home neglect is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for elderly residents. Physical, emotional, and financial abuse, as well as neglect of basic needs such as food, water and hygiene, can accompany bedsores and victims should receive care immediately.

Being aware of the signs of neglect can help family and other visitors catch substandard treatment before it affects the resident. When visiting care home residents, always be on the lookout for these tell-tale signs.

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


Contact Us Today for a
Free Case Evaluation & Consultation

To learn more about how we can help and your legal options, call us at 334-289-2255, or send us an email now. We represent wrongful death clients in Marengo, Perry, Hale, Wilcox, Dallas, Sumter, Greene, and Clarke counties.

While this website provides general information, it does not constitute legal advice. The best way to get guidance on your specific legal issue is to contact a lawyer. To schedule a meeting with a wrongful death lawyer, please call or complete the intake form.

How would you like to be contacted?

Disclaimer: The use of the internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.

bottom of page