Pressure Ulcers: When Neglect Leads to Serious Injury

When families entrust the care of their loved ones to nursing homes, they expect compassion, professionalism, and vigilance. Yet, for many families, that trust is shattered when their loved one develops a pressure ulcer — a preventable condition that signals neglect and can lead to serious, sometimes fatal, complications.

What Are Pressure Ulcers?

Pressure ulcers, commonly known as bedsores, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the skin. They often develop on bony areas of the body, such as the hips, heels, tailbone, and elbows, particularly in individuals who are immobile or have limited mobility.

These wounds progress in stages.

• Stage 1: Red, non-blanchable skin

• Stage 2: Open sore or blister

• Stage 3: Deep wound exposing fat tissue

• Stage 4: Severe injury involving muscle, tendon, or bone

If untreated, pressure ulcers can lead to infections such as sepsis or osteomyelitis, causing further pain, hospitalization, and even death.

Are Pressure Ulcers Preventable?

The development of pressure ulcers is almost always preventable with proper care. Nursing home staff must:

• Regularly reposition immobile residents to relieve pressure.

• Provide adequate hydration and nutrition to support skin health.

• Ensure skin is clean and dry to prevent breakdown.

• Use specialized mattresses, cushions, or pads to reduce pressure.

When these basic care practices are neglected, the health and safety of your loved ones are compromised.

Signs of Neglect in Nursing Homes

Pressure ulcers often indicate deeper systemic issues within a facility, such as:

• Understaffing: Not enough caregivers to provide timely repositioning or hygiene care

• Inadequate Training: Staff who lack knowledge about pressure ulcer prevention

• Negligence: Failure to recognize or address early signs of skin breakdown

• Poor Policies: Inefficient procedures or lack of accountability

Families should remain vigilant for signs of neglect, including unexplained weight loss, poor hygiene, and lack of response to complaints.

 

Legal Recourse for Pressure Ulcer Injuries

When pressure ulcers develop due to neglect, family members have the right to hold nursing homes accountable. As an attorney specializing in nursing home neglect cases, I have witnessed the pain and frustration families endure. Taking legal action not only seeks justice for the affected resident but also sends a message that substandard care is unacceptable.

If you suspect neglect, here are simple steps of action I recommend:

1. Document Everything: Take photographs of injuries, keep notes of conversations with staff, and maintain records of medical care.

2. Request Records: Obtain the facility’s care plans and incident reports.

3. Report Neglect: File a complaint with your state’s health department or regulatory agency.

4. Seek Legal Guidance: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.

Advocate for Better Care

Every nursing home resident deserves dignity, respect, and competent care. Pressure ulcers are a stark reminder of the human cost of neglect. By raising awareness and pursuing accountability, families can drive meaningful change and help prevent others from suffering similar harm.

If your loved one has suffered from pressure ulcers due to nursing home neglect, contact our office for a free consultation. Together, we can advocate for justice and ensure your voice is heard.