Pressure sores fall under different categories, ranging from grade 1 to grade IV. Grade 1 pressure sores are characterized by mere discoloration of the skin while Grade IV pressure sores are severe and can result in the damage of the skin, joint, tissue, tendons, or even death of the patient.
Complications
Pressure sores can be very challenging to treat and may result in severe complications. The patient’s skin over heels, the back of the head, and elbows is at greater risk. If somebody tissues don’t get the right level of oxygen and overall blood flow, it can die. If left untreated, pressure sores can result in other medical conditions including bacteria entering the bloodstream, infections to the joints and bone, cancer, abscess, and inflation of tissue.
Preventing pressure sores
To prevent the complications associated with pressure sores, it is recommended for the nursing facilities and caregivers to take the right precautions. One of the most effective ways of preventing bedsores is by repositioning the patient regularly. Besides, special pieces of equipment can be used to help offer enough support to the patient to prevent the development of pressure sores.
Remember, an individual who spends more of his or her time in bed or stuck in a wheelchair is more likely to develop pressure sores than one who changes his position regularly. Since patients require assistance in repositioning, it is the duty of the nursing facility’s staff members to offer the expected level of care.
Personal injury claim
Most personal injury claims and lawsuits involving pressure sores are filed against nursing facilities. Patients in these facilities should be taken care of by professionals who exercise utmost caution to prevent the development of pressure sores. In case a resident isn’t taken care of properly, he or she may end up developing pressure sores that can result in severe infections. In the worst cases of pressure sores, the patient can die.
The law allows patients who suffer bedsores while in hospitals or nursing homes to file a personal injury claim. Remember, it is recommended to consult with your attorney first to get legal counsel.
One of the types of claims you can file against the nursing facility is the medical malpractice. Medical practitioners are required to offer a certain standard of care. Thus, you can hold your doctor or caregiver responsible for failure to adhere to the standard of care. You can also have a valid claim if you believe that you developed pressure sores due to neglect while in a nursing home or hospital. In case a patient dies as a result of pressure sores, the surviving beneficiaries can file a wrongful death claim against the facility.