Bedsores

Bedsores: What They Are and Why They Matter
A bedsore, also known as a pressure sore or decubitus ulcer, is a painful wound that develops due to prolonged pressure on the skin. These sores often occur when individuals are confined to a bed, wheelchair, or other stationary positions for extended periods. While bedsores can be prevented with proper care, their presence is often a warning sign of neglect, particularly in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities.

Common Areas Where Bedsores Develop
Bedsores tend to form on areas of the body that experience consistent pressure against surfaces such as a mattress or chair. These areas include:

• Spine
• Tailbone
• Shoulder blades
• Heels
• Hips
• Back of the legs or arms
• Ankles, toes, and elbows

Bedsores can also result from friction or shearing, where skin is pulled in opposite directions, often due to improper handling by caregivers. Because these sores are entirely preventable with proper care, their presence is a red flag that something may be wrong with your loved one’s treatment.

Bedsores and Medical Malpractice in Connecticut

In Connecticut, nursing homes and medical caregivers are required to meet a certain standard of care. When bedsores develop, it often indicates that this standard has not been met. Bedsores are commonly linked to medical malpractice or nursing home abuse.

Medical malpractice occurs when healthcare professionals fail to take reasonable steps to prevent bedsores. Similarly, nursing home abuse involves neglecting a patient’s basic needs, leading to bedsores and other health issues. This is especially concerning as Connecticut’s population of elderly individuals continues to grow, and many long-term care facilities face staffing shortages and overcrowding.

At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we understand how devastating it is to discover that your loved one has suffered due to neglect or malpractice. Our team is here to help you seek justice for your family member and hold negligent parties accountable.

Causes of Bedsores

Bedsores are entirely preventable when caregivers adhere to proper procedures. Common causes of bedsores in nursing homes and hospitals include:

1. Failing to Move Patients Regularly: Patients who remain in the same position for hours are at high risk. Caregivers must reposition them frequently to alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas.
2. Using Improper Bedding or Equipment: Pressure-relieving mattresses, cushions, and pillows are essential for preventing bedsores.
3. Neglecting Hygiene and Sanitation: Failing to change linens regularly or keep the skin dry can increase the risk of sores.
4. Ignoring Signs of Pressure or Discomfort: Regular inspections of a patient’s body can help identify early signs of pressure damage.
5. Failing to Provide Proper Nutrition and Hydration: Malnourished or dehydrated patients are more prone to bedsores and infections.

When caregivers fail to take these steps, the consequences can be severe. Bedsores often lead to pain, infections, and even life-threatening conditions such as sepsis.

What Can You Do to Address Bedsores?

If your loved one is in a nursing home or hospital, vigilance is key. Bedsores progress in stages, starting with mild redness and potentially developing into deep wounds if left untreated. Here are steps you can take:

• Look for Warning Signs: Red spots, raw skin, or open sores are indicators of bedsores. Speak up immediately if you notice these issues.
• Ask Questions: Inquire about how often your loved one is repositioned, the cleanliness of their bedding, and the overall hygiene practices of the facility.
• Document Concerns: Take photographs of any visible sores and keep a written record of your observations and interactions with staff.
• Advocate for Your Loved One: Let caregivers know that you are actively involved in monitoring your loved one’s care. Facilities are often more attentive when they know family members are paying close attention.

Bedsores are not just an indicator of neglect—they are a call to action. Protecting your loved one from harm ensures they receive the respect and dignity they deserve.

How Bert McDowell Injury Law Can Help

If your loved one has developed bedsores due to negligence or abuse, the team at Bert McDowell Injury Law is here to help. Based in Connecticut, we have extensive experience handling nursing home abuse and medical malpractice cases. We’ll thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s injuries, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Why Choose Bert McDowell Injury Law?

• Compassionate Representation: We treat every case with the care and attention it deserves.
• No Fees Unless We Win: You won’t pay anything unless we recover compensation for you.
• Experienced Legal Team: We know how to hold negligent parties accountable.
• Free Consultation: Discuss your case with us at no cost.

Take Action Today

Don’t let neglect or abuse go unchecked. Call Bert McDowell Injury Law at (475) 231-3274 for a FREE consultation. Let us help you protect your loved one’s rights and secure the justice they deserve.