Americans over 65 years of age make up the fastest-growing population in our country. Many in this age bracket have decreased mobility and need assistance with moving and activities of daily living, putting them at an increased risk for many health issues, including bedsores, also known as pressure or decubitus ulcers. And it's not just older adults who are at risk; anyone with decreased mobility due to illness or injury can develop bedsores if they do not receive proper care.
If you have a loved one who has developed bedsores while in the care of healthcare professionals, you likely have many questions. A New York City bedsore lawyer at Sinel & Olesen, PLLC, could help you understand your options.
What are bedsores?
A bedsore develops when there is pressure on one area of skin frequently or for a long period of time. These wounds are most frequently found on bony areas of the body such as the heels, tailbone, ankles, hips, shoulder blades, spine, back or side of the head, and behind the knees. When pressure against the skin stops or limits blood flow to a specific area, bedsores can develop. The skin and underlying tissues rely on oxygen and nutrients that are delivered through the blood. When they are not receiving oxygen and nutrients, skin and other nearby tissues are at risk for damage and may begin to die.
What causes bedsores?
People frequently develop bed sores when they do not receive adequate medical attention. This injury results in open wounds and irritated skin patches that are caused by friction, unrelieved pressure, or prolonged pressure on the skin. Although a bed sore can develop almost anywhere, the most common areas to develop them are the backside, the buttocks, heels, ankles, hips, and on the head.
Are bedsores a sign of neglect?
When you place a family member in a nursing home, it is typically not an easy decision. You likely took comfort in the fact that they would be cared for around the clock. Each patient is different when it comes to how their bedsores developed and whether they were a sign of neglect. However, due to the nature of how bedsores develop, when a person is immobile and relies on hospital or nursing home staff for their basic needs, a bedsore can often be a sign of neglect. Bedsores are preventable, especially ones that have reached later stages. They are one of the most common avoidable injuries in nursing homes. Nursing homes and hospitals have protocols on how often patients should be turned and repositioned; usually, every one to two hours. They also have protocols and regulations about performing regular skin inspections. Early signs of bedsore development should be noted, and staff should act accordingly to prevent further skin breakdown. The nursing staff has various devices and tools available to them to help prevent bedsores in areas that are beginning to look irritated or red. When they suspect that a resident or patient may be in the beginning stages of developing a bedsore, there is still time to take action and prevent a pressure ulcer. When staff members fail to move or turn a patient, to perform diligent and thorough skin inspections, or use the equipment and tools at their disposal, their neglect can lead to a pressure ulcer.
What are other forms of neglect in health care facilities?
Although they are common, bedsores are not the only form of abuse or neglect within a healthcare facility. Other forms of abuse or neglect in a hospital or a nursing care facility include: inadequate wound care leading to infections; dehydration, malnutrition, and failure to provide sufficient quantities of food; over or improper medication; lack of supervision due to immobility from bedsores, leading to falls; and poor hygiene.
Why are some people at greater risk for bedsores?
A bedsore can happen to anyone who lays or sits in one place for too long or too frequently. Older adults are least likely to be able to move and reposition themselves, putting them at high risk for developing these painful pressure ulcers. They rely upon trained, certified, and licensed staff to provide them with their needs, which usually include some or full assistance with moving. Elderly and immobile patients rely on health care staff at nursing homes and hospitals to reposition them at least every two hours and provide a level of care that meets required standards in New York. Failure to do this often causes bedsores to develop. For many different reasons, none of which are excusable, nursing home staff struggle to be able to do this in some facilities. It could be a lack of training, lack of compassion, lack of adequate staff, or that they simply are too busy and do not care. People with mobility problems also have other risk factors that can contribute to developing bedsores, such as poor nutrition, thin skin, dehydration, bladder and bowel incontinence, and decreased ability to feel pain.
Can bedsores cause further complications?
For some nursing home residents or hospital patients, bedsores are not just a sign of neglect, but also the beginning of a cascade of medical problems. If not treated soon enough, bedsores can cause an infection of the skin and soft tissues known as cellulitis. The infection can also travel to the bone and joints, causing severe pain and reduced movement and function. In some elderly people, a skin ulcer can lead to a systemic infection or sepsis. For others, a bedsore can turn into cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma.
Why should I choose NYC Bedsore Lawyer for my case?
At NYC Bedsore Lawyer, we have extensive experience handling bedsore cases and a proven track record of success. Our team includes skilled attorneys who specialize in nursing home abuse and medical malpractice. We offer personalized attention to each client, work on a contingency fee basis (meaning you don't pay unless we win), and provide free initial consultations. Our goal is to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Can I file a lawsuit for bedsores?
Yes, you may be able to file a lawsuit if your loved one developed bedsores due to negligence in a hospital or nursing home. Bedsores are often preventable with proper care, so their presence can be a sign of neglect. Our experienced attorneys can evaluate your case and help determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit.
How can I tell if my loved one has bedsores?
Signs of bedsores include: unusual changes in skin color or texture; swelling; pus-like draining; an area of skin that feels cooler or warmer to the touch than other areas; and tender areas. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.
How much compensation can I expect from a bedsore lawsuit?
The value of a bedsore lawsuit varies depending on factors such as the severity of the injuries, the level of negligence involved, and the impact on the victim's quality of life. While each case is unique, settlements for serious bedsore cases can reach into six or even seven figures. During your free consultation, we can provide a more specific estimate based on the details of your case.
Talk to a New York City bedsore lawyer
Call Sinel & Olesen, PLLC at 212-465-1000, email info@nycbedsorelawyer.com, or complete an online case evaluation
This page is for general information only and is not legal advice. See our disclaimer