Pressure Ulcers and Bedsores can progress quickly and can be deadly. The first thing you should do is remove pressure from the area and speak to a nurse on duty to begin to remedy the situation. Be aware that the nurse may not have a full understanding of these injuries and you will need the attention of a wound care specialist and medical doctor.
Yes, you can sue! Pressure Ulcers are often a sign of neglect and sometimes a sign of abuse or malpractice. They occur when someone is immobile and there is not adequate blood flow. Then the affected tissue dies and an ulcerated sore develops.
In a nursing home or hospital it is the responsibility of the nursing staff to check and turn the patient regularly. There are laws in place that protect patients and you should know that these injuries are not the fault of the patient. The patient is the victim. If a loved one you know is suffering they may have a valuable, financially rewarding lawsuit. In the New York area, millions of dollars have been awarded to pressure sore victims and their families.
The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) defines a pressure ulcer as a “localized injury to the skin and/or underlying tissue, usually over a bony prominence, as a result of pressure, or pressure in combination with shear.” Illustrations of common locations of pressure ulcers are shown below:
These injuries can lead to further medical problems, infections, sepsis, amputation and even death. Whether malpractice, abuse or neglect it is simply unjust and unnecessary for it to happen to an innocent patient.
Call today for a free consultation to find out the value of a lawsuit or for more information: 212-268-8200, or 800-278-2960
Read more at http://www.BedsoreHotline.com
Stages of Bedsores:
