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If your elderly family member has developed a pressure injury in a nursing home, it's natural to feel concerned.
Pressure injuries, also called pressure ulcers or bedsores, can be a severe sign of neglect in nursing homes. These injuries develop when a person stays in the same position for too long without proper movement or care.
At Kline & Specter, where we employ over 50 lawyers, five of whom are also medical doctors, we know that pressure injuries can sometimes be unavoidable. However, we also know that their presence – especially if they worsen – can indicate poor care.
Here's what you need to know to ensure your loved one's safety.
Recognizing the Severity of Pressure Injuries
If the nursing home informs you that your loved one has developed a pressure injury, ask for specific information on the wound's stage and severity.
Nursing home staff may downplay the seriousness. However, advanced-stage pressure injuries can be life-threatening. They carry a high risk of infection, septic shock, and, in some cases, death.
To understand the true condition, request to see the injury in person or ask for photographs. If the facility does not take photographs, then take photographs yourself with your phone. This can help you gauge the severity and document the situation.
Health Risks Associated with Advanced-Stage Pressure Injuries
Advanced-stage pressure injuries are particularly dangerous. This is because the skin and tissue damage often reach deep into muscle and bone. At these stages, a pressure injury can quickly lead to infections, which are challenging to treat in elderly individuals.
Infections from pressure injuries may also develop into sepsis. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention.
Because these injuries can worsen without timely and proper care, they are often a sign that a loved one's needs may not be adequately addressed in their current care setting.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Neglect
If you believe your loved one's pressure injury may be the result of neglect, there are several steps you can take:
- Document their condition, including photos of the wound, if possible.
- Keep records of all conversations with nursing home staff regarding your concerns and their responses.
- Request a copy of medical records to understand the treatment and monitoring provided.
- Contact an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the situation and determine whether or not your loved one has a case.
Schedule a Case Review Today
If you're concerned about neglect, consult an experienced legal team as soon as you can.
At Kline & Specter, we understand how critical it is to ensure the safety and dignity of your loved one. Contact us for a case review to discuss how we can help protect their rights.
Call 215-772-1000 or submit our online form.