Pittsburgh Bedsores and Pressure Sores Lawyer

Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or ulcers, are one of the most common injuries associated with nursing home abuse and neglect. A bedsore occurs when there is unrelieved pressure on the skin. They most often occur on areas of the body such as the back, hips, elbows, ankles and heels which are in contact with the bed.

Since bedsores arise from unrelieved pressure to the skin, individuals who spend most of their days in bed or a wheelchair are most susceptible.

If an individual goes into a nursing home with a bedsore, it is the nursing home’s responsibility to care for that wound. Unfortunately, a majority of patients either do not receive the treatment they need to recover or end up developing bedsores at the nursing home facility. If your loved one enters a nursing home with a sore, measure and photograph the sore along with any changes.

If your loved one has suffered from a bedsore, you may be able to pursue a claim against the negligent party.

Causes of Bedsores in Nursing Homes

• Soiled/unchanged bedding
• Soiled/unchanged adult diapers
• Sustained pressure/staying in one position or place for too long-such as a bed or wheelchair
• Failure to periodically reposition or turn patients known to be at risk or skin breakdown
• Friction caused when a person is transported or moved to a different position
• The failure to make, implement and follow a skin care plan

Areas to look for bedsores:

• Tailbone
• Buttocks
• Shoulders
• Back of the head
• Hips
• Knees/ankles/heels

Serious Complications Caused by Bedsores

Bedsores can lead to multiple serious injuries and medical conditions if not treated properly and quickly. These conditions include: bone infections and sepsis to name a few. These medical conditions are serious and life threatening. The treatment can become costly and medical bills will begin to accumulate.

If your loved one has suffered from a bedsore due to a negligent nursing home, contact the nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys at Berger and Green. We will provide you with a free no obligation consultation to discuss your case.

Do not feel alone or that this type of injury is common for those at a nursing home facility. Let our firm help you hold those accountable for your loved one’s injuries.