Lawyers for Bedsores

Understanding Bedsores: How and Why They Happen

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. They are a serious concern for individuals with limited mobility, especially older people in nursing homes.

Understanding how and why bedsores develop is crucial for prevention and management, ensuring the well-being of vulnerable populations.

How Bedsores Develop

Bedsores typically occur in areas where bone and skin are close to each other, such as heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone. They develop in four stages, ranging from red, unbroken skin to deep wounds exposing muscle or bone.

The primary cause is prolonged pressure on one body area, which cuts off blood supply to the skin and tissues. Without adequate blood flow, the affected tissue dies, leading to the formation of a sore.

Other contributing factors include:

• Friction: When skin rubs against bedding or clothing, it becomes more vulnerable to injury.
• Shear: When the skin moves in one direction and the bone in another, such as sliding down in a bed or chair, it can stretch and tear the skin, making it susceptible to sores.
• Moisture: Wetness from sweat, urine, or feces can weaken the skin, increasing the risk of bedsores.

Why They Happen

Bedsores often occur due to neglect in nursing homes where residents may not receive adequate care, including regular repositioning, skin inspection, and maintenance of dry and clean skin.

Inadequate nutrition and hydration also play a role, as they are essential for skin health and resilience. Mobility issues, poor health, and certain medical conditions like diabetes can increase susceptibility to pressure ulcers by affecting blood flow and skin conditions.

Prevention and Care

Preventing bedsores involves regular repositioning, maintaining skin hygiene, ensuring proper nutrition, and using supportive devices like cushions or mattresses designed to reduce pressure.

Awareness and proactive measures can prevent these painful and potentially life-threatening injuries. Early detection and treatment can prevent the progression of bedsores, underscoring the importance of vigilant care and regular skin assessments for individuals at risk.

Negligence and abuse cause most bedsores. Understanding this illuminates the critical need for attentive, compassionate care for those most vulnerable, especially in nursing homes. It also illustrates the importance of hiring a lawyer for your bedsore claim.