NURSING HOME ABUSE: BEDSORES & NEGLECT
Bedsores, also known as decubitus ulcers, pressure ulcers, or pressure sores, are injuries commonly sustained in nursing homes due to substandard and negligent care. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as 10 percent of nursing home residents currently suffer from bedsores, which result when a bedridden or wheelchair-bound person is not regularly repositioned. When the body stays in one position too long, serious damage may result to the skin and underlying tissues, particularly in areas like the heels, ankles, tailbone, back, and hips. If left untreated, a bedsore can become infected, which can be life-threatening.
Infected bedsores may cause the following complications:
- Sepsis: A potentially fatal bacterial infection of body tissues and the bloodstream
- Cellulitis: An inflammation of the connective tissues which may result in meningitis
- Bone or joint infections: Infections of the bone or joints may cause damage to cartilage and tissues and restrict joint function
- Cancer: Untreated bedsores may develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of cancer
Bedsores in the most advanced stage (Stage IV) have caused such widespread damage that bones, tendons, and muscles may be exposed. One look at this type of gruesome injury is clear evidence that a patient has suffered from severe neglect.
You should take immediate action if you notice these injuries on your loved one. The Tampa nursing home abuse attorneys at The Florida Law Group represent nursing home patients and their families on cases involving abuse and negligence. Since 1982, our firm has been a trusted source of personal injury, medical malpractice, and nursing home abuse representation. Talk to a lawyer at our firm today about how we may be able to help you pursue compensation for your losses through either a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
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