Not only can bedsores, pressure sores and decubitus ulcers be prevented, they can be easily cured should they develop. Nevertheless, approximately 25% of nursing home residents will experience bed sores, pressure sores, or decubitus ulcers at some point during their stay. Because nursing home residents have a greater chance of developing bedsores, staff members should take extra caution when caring for these individuals. Those susceptible to pressure sores include:
Residents aged 75 or older
Those who cannot feed themselves
Residents who cannot reposition themselves, due to physical limitations or the use of restraints
Individuals who do not understand the need to turn or reposition in bed
Underweight residents
Individuals with dry skin
Residents who are incontinent or have decreased mental ability
Residents with serious medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer and multiple sclerosis
Federal law requires that the nursing home workers must prevent the development of bedsores unless the resident's medical condition proves that decubitus ulcers were unavoidable. However, in many cases, bedsores are avoidable and the reason for their development is often nursing home neglect. In addition, nursing home staff members must, under law, prevent the progression of any pressure sores present at the time of entry to the facility.
Please feel free to contact the Peck Law Group nursing home neglect attorneys toll free at (866) 999-9085 for a free consultation if you believe that a family member or loved one has sustained serious injury or wrongful death as a result of bed sores (also known as pressure sores or decubitus ulcers), nursing home falls, dehydration/malnutrition,contractures, medication administration error/prescription mistake, elder abuse or elder neglect. We Will Help You!!!
