Understanding The Severity Of Bedsores And Why Taking Photos Of Them Can Help
When an individual is confined to his or her bed for a prolonged period of time, they run the risk of developing bedsores. Also referred to as decubitus ulcers, or pressure ulcers, these sores cannot only be painful but life-threatening. At The Skolnick Weiser Law Firm, LLC, our lawyers understand how serious bedsores can be and under what circumstances it may be possible to recover damages from caregivers who allow the sores to develop.
Pressure Sore Stages
The pain and danger associated with a decubitus ulcer will vary based upon which of the four stages it is deemed to be at.
The least serious bedsores are considered to be in stage 1. Though the skin does not have tears or breaks, it is often warm to the touch and can be painful.
Ulcers, tears or breaks may develop when a bedsore is in stage 2. At this stage, bedsore has expanded beyond the top layers and in most cases results in great pain.
When a pressure sore is at stage 3 it is more than the skin that is affected. At this point, the tissue located under the skin is also involved. The sore may appear like a crater and infections of the blood or bone may occur.
By the time bedsore reaches stage 4, the damage is extensive. In addition to skin and tissue, joints, tendons, bone and muscles may be impacted. Here again blood or bone infections, which could be fatal, might occur.
Should You Take A Picture?
Bedsores often appear on the parts of body that are always in contact with the bed, such as buttocks, hips, heels or lower back. They are a known issue for people who are confined to bed, and can be prevented by caretakers regularly repositioning the patient by turning at frequent intervals as defined in the patient’s care plan. If your loved one has a pressure sore, to successfully prove your claim it may be beneficial to take pictures of a decubitus ulcer. These pictures may later be used as evidence.
Compassionate Representation For Victims Of Nursing Home Negligence
We believe nursing home residents and others confined to bed deserve to be treated with respect. If your loved one has experienced serious injury due to bedsores or died from complications, you will likely need legal counsel. We can help. Contact The Skolnick Weiser Law Firm, LLC, online, or at 216-861-8888 or 877-977-3476 (toll-free), to schedule a free consultation with a compassionate, knowledgeable nursing home negligence attorney. Se habla español.