Pressure ulcers -- better known as bedsores and decubitus ulcers -- are lesions on the skin that are caused by unrelieved pressure resulting in tissue damage. They usually develop over bony areas of the body, often in the lower limbs (ankles and hips are common), but they can occur almost anywhere (for example, in the nostrils of patients with feeding tubes, in the corners of the mouth in patients with endotracheal tubes, and between fingers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis).
Pressure ulcers are quite common in hospitals and other institutional settings. In acute care hospitals they occur in about 3-15 percent of patients; they occur in about a third of elderly patients who have had hip fractures; and the number rises to as much as 50 percent in critical care patients. Ten to 35 percent of patients admitted to nursing homes have pressure ulcers, though this rate decreases somewhat for patients who have been there longer. Because there are other reasons for skin breakdown, it is important to be examined and diagnosed by a doctor so that the appropriate treatment can be determined.
Although elderly residents are awarded certain nursing home rights, some facilities, either unknowingly or intentionally, may violate these basic rights. If you suspect your loved one is being abused in a nursing home or otherwise deprived of their nursing home resident rights, such as bed sores, dehydration, malnutrition, infection, under staffing, physical abuse, you should immediately contact us toll free at 1.866.999.9085 or on-line at www.thepecklawgroup.com for a free thorough case review and evaluation. This case review is being offered at no cost and shall help determine whether you should take legal action on behalf of your elder / dependent adult loved one. We Will Help You!!
