You or a loved one face the usually daunting task of having to select a nursing home as one’s residence. You expect that the home will provide care that is needed and necessary. Sadly, nursing home neglect does occur which may lead to the development of a bedsore.

Here is a chart of the stages of a bedsore. There is a “5th stage”, known as unstageable. At the foot of this article is a picture of a bedsore to the low back. Intentionally placed there as it is graphic and disturbing.

Bedsores also commonly referred to as pressure ulcers, decubitus ulcers or pressure wounds, typically occur when someone is left in a position for an extended period.

A lack of activity usually requires that the nursing home to be preemptive and implement prevent measures. Measures such as placing the person on a turning and positioning schedule help to prevent the development of bedsores. These measures are recognized in the industry and should be followed.

Bedsores are a serious medical condition. They are painful and place the person at further risk of harm. They may require surgical intervention. Left untreated or not properly treated, bedsores can lead to infection or even death.

“If a patient has a bedsore, it’s generally not the fault of the disease, but of the nursing.” Famed nurse, Florence Nightingale. While true, this is usually not why bedsores occur in nursing homes. Bedsores typically occur due to insufficient staffing.

Probably the single greatest reason they occur are because the ownership of the nursing home does not properly staff the facility.

We want to advocate on behalf of you or your loved one. If you believe there has been neglect, please don’t delay. Contact us. We want to let negligent nursing homes know that they failed their resident, that they need to do better so to prevent harm from recurring and to recover the monetary compensation that you are entitled to.

Bedsores or pressure ulcers are portions of the skin that are damaged due to staying in one position for a long time. This condition is common among those who must stay in bed, must use a wheelchair, or have difficulty moving their body. The skin lesion can be painful, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious infections.

Bedsores commonly occur due to understaffing

Photo not from a case my firm handled.

If you or someone you know is injured please consider contacting Adams Law Firm, P.C. We are in Rockland County and have a proven track record of successfully advocating on behalf of those injured due to harm, abuse and neglect.