Bedsores, or pressure ulcers, can seriously harm elderly patients if left untreated. Understanding these problems and their causes is important for proper care and prevention. Persistent and ongoing bedsores can also be an indicator of nursing home neglect or abuse.
What causes bedsores?
Bedsores develop when continuous pressure on the skin cuts off blood flow, causing the skin and tissue to break down. Friction and shear, which occur when the skin moves in opposite directions, can also contribute to bedsores. Bedsores often appear on bony areas of someone’s body like heels, hips or the tailbone. Individuals who are immobile or bedridden are at higher risk for getting bedsores, especially when those patients are underweight. Attentive care is crucial in preventing these painful sores. Without timely treatment, bedsores can get much worse.
What are the consequences if bedsores are not treated?
If left untreated, bedsores can lead to serious complications, including:
- Infections: Untreated bedsores can become infected, leading to serious conditions like cellulitis, bone infections, or even sepsis. These infections can spread quickly and become life-threatening, needing extensive medical treatment.
- Chronic pain: Persistent bedsores cause a lot of discomfort and pain, badly affecting the patient’s quality of life. This pain can lead to less movement and a reluctance to move, making the condition worse.
- Decreased mobility: Severe bedsores can limit mobility, making it hard for patients to move or do daily activities. This decreased mobility can lead to muscle wasting and other problems, further hurting the patient’s health.
- Prolonged hospital stays: Treating advanced pressure ulcers often requires long hospital stays, increasing the risk of other complications, like infections. These long stays also place a big emotional and financial burden on patients and their families.
- Mental health issues: The physical pain and long treatment linked with bedsores can lead to depression and anxiety in elderly patients. The stress of dealing with chronic pain and extended medical care can severely impact what can already be fragile mental health.
The sooner bedsores are treated, the better the outcome. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve recovery, making attentive care essential for the well-being of your loved one.
How are bedsores treated?
Bedsores are treatable and early intervention is key. Treating bedsores involves relieving pressure on the affected area, cleaning the wound, and applying appropriate dressings. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary to treat infections. It’s also important to maintain good nutrition and hydration to support healing. Regular repositioning and using specialized mattresses can help prevent further sores. Consulting health care professionals ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
What should you do if you notice bedsores and suspect neglect?
If you notice signs of bedsores on your loved one, it is important to act quickly:
- Document any evidence, by taking photos or preserving medical records.
- Communicate your concerns to the nursing home staff.
- Follow-up to make sure that your concerns are being addressed.
If you suspect neglect, consider filing a report. Every county in California has a dedicated Adult Protective Services (APS) response agency, and the Department of Social Services encourages anyone who suspects nursing home abuse or neglect to file a report.
When should an elder abuse attorney get involved?
Bedsores can have severe and lasting effects on elderly patients, impacting their physical health, mobility, and mental well-being. Early detection and proper care are crucial in preventing these complications. By understanding the causes and risks, caregivers can take proactive steps to protect their loved ones from the harmful impacts of bedsores.
However, if you suspect that a loved one is suffering from bedsores because of neglect, an experienced elder abuse attorney can guide you through the process of filing a report and advocate on behalf of your loved one. A lawyer who understands elder abuse and neglect can help you protect your loved one’s rights and seek justice for any neglect or wrongdoing.