When you’re in the hospital, you’re at risk of developing bedsores because of the negligence of healthcare workers. Bedsores can happen to anyone, but they’re particularly common among elderly patients with immobilizing conditions. Patients spend long hours in bed or in a wheelchair, so they’re susceptible to developing a pressure ulcer from not being monitored properly. If you or a loved one is suffering from bedsore, you should contact a bedsore lawyer.
Treatment options
There are many treatment options for bedsores, ranging from home remedies to medical procedures. Early bedsores can heal within a few days, while more severe cases can take years to completely heal. Bedsore in the early stages is often not noticeable, but it is still a sign of damage to the skin. To prevent further damage, the first step in treatment is to reduce pressure on the affected area. Often, extra padding from pillows and blankets can prevent bed sores from breaking the skin surface.
In addition to home treatments, people with circulatory problems are at a higher risk of developing bed sores, which are caused by poor circulation or a lack of nutrition. Bedsores are particularly problematic for the elderly, who often have poor circulation and skin that deteriorates with age. Symptoms of bedsores can range from mild discomfort to more serious complications, such as blood and bone infections. If left untreated, bedsores can develop into life-threatening situations.
Signs of negligent care
If you have been a victim of negligent care for bedsores, you may be entitled to compensation. This type of care can result in devastating complications, including necrotizing fasciitis, bone, and joint infection, amputation, and cancer of the skin and lymph nodes. Thankfully, you do not have to go through this ordeal alone. Our firm can help you fight for your right to compensation. Let us walk you through the signs of negligent care for bedsores.
If you have a family member who has developed bedsore, you may be able to pursue legal action against the nursing home or hospital responsible for the condition. Even if it wasn’t your fault, bed sores are a serious medical condition and can be deadly. When you suspect negligence, you can contact a nursing home neglect attorney who can help you fight your case. They will assess your case and determine whether you’re eligible for compensation.
Stages of a bedsore
Bedsores are typically red or warm scabs that can itch or burn. They also develop a crusty or blister-like appearance. If not treated in a timely fashion, bedsores may eventually be permanent. Depending on the severity of the condition, bedsores may require intensive treatment. Once in the second stage, the sore may resemble an open wound and can become visible. Deeper and wider bedsores may have fatty tissue and bone exposed.
In Stage One, bedsores are easily treated. The skin is still intact but is discolored and feels rough. You can tell if bedsore has broken out by pressing on it. It may also be open or shallow. If the wound is deep, pus or fluid may leak. If a bedsore is deep, the skin can break or rupture. If this occurs, medical attention is needed.
Symptoms
Bedsores are open wounds on the body that are often accompanied by redness and swelling. They can occur on any part of the body, including the back of the head, shoulders, hips, tailbone, knees, ankles, elbows, and feet. Bedsores come in several stages and can range in severity. Stage 1 bedsores are small, with little or no itch. Stage 2 bedsores can be blister-like and may spread to the deep fat, while stage three and four bedsores are deep, unbroken wounds with thick black scabs.
Treatments for bedsores vary depending on the stage of the ulcer and its severity. Treatment options may include antibacterials, therapy, or surgery. Bedsores are prone to infection, so they are treated with antibacterials. Debridement, or the removal of dead tissue, is also a treatment option. Bedsores must be kept clean to minimize the risk of infection. Several antibiotic dressings are available, including those containing silver, cadexomer, or iodine.
Experience of a bedsore lawyer
If your bed-sore complaint is complicated, you may benefit from hiring a bedsore lawyer. Experience is important when filing a claim, and it will help if your attorney has handled dozens of similar cases. Experienced bedsore lawyers will also have knowledge about the legal issues involved in these cases, as well as practical advice on how to manage a bedsore claim. Experienced bedsore attorneys are much more likely to win the case you bring against the hospital.
While bed sores may seem simple, the severity of these injuries can lead to permanent scarring. Some can even become lethal in their advanced stages. Whether or not you have a claim is largely up to the court, but the value of your case will depend on the severity of your bedsore and the damages it caused. In addition to physical damages, you may also be entitled to compensation if you’re unable to perform any activity because of your bed sores.