Nursing Home Abuse and Bedsores: Are They A Sign of Neglect?
When you entrust the care of a loved one to a nursing home, you expect them to receive the attention, dignity, and medical care they deserve. Unfortunately, nursing home neglect can occur, and one of the most visible and concerning signs of neglect is the development of bedsores. Bedsores—also known as pressure ulcers—are more than just skin injuries; they can be a red flag indicating a lack of proper care and attention. If you notice bedsores on your loved one, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with our Atlanta personal injury lawyers at The Spizman Firm today.
What Are Bedsores and How Do They Develop?
Bedsores are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the body, often over bony areas like the hips, tailbone, heels, or elbows. They frequently occur when individuals with limited mobility are not repositioned regularly or are left to lie in one position for too long.
In nursing homes, residents who are bedridden, use wheelchairs, or are otherwise unable to move independently are at the highest risk of developing bedsores. Proper care, such as regularly repositioning patients, maintaining clean and dry bedding, and ensuring adequate nutrition, can prevent these painful sores. When these basic standards of care are neglected, bedsores can appear and worsen over time, often leading to serious infections, sepsis, or even death.
Are Bedsores a Sign of Neglect?
Yes, in many cases, bedsores are a clear indication of nursing home neglect. While bedsores can sometimes develop despite proper care in extremely frail individuals, they are widely recognized as preventable with appropriate medical attention and consistent monitoring. When a resident develops bedsores, it raises questions about whether the nursing home staff is meeting their obligations, such as:
- Regularly Repositioning Residents: Caregivers must ensure immobile patients are turned every two hours to relieve pressure.
- Maintaining Hygiene: Proper hygiene and clean bedding help prevent infections that worsen bedsores.
- Monitoring Health: Staff must monitor residents for early signs of bedsores and take immediate action to treat them.
- Providing Adequate Nutrition: Malnutrition and dehydration increase the risk of pressure ulcers.
Failure to perform these tasks may constitute neglect under Georgia law. Families who observe bedsores on a loved one should treat it as a serious warning sign and investigate further.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Neglect?
If you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect, take the following steps:
- Document the Bedsores: Take photographs, note the locations, and record their severity.
- Request Medical Records: Review care logs and medical charts for evidence of improper care.
- Talk to Nursing Home Staff: Ask questions about the care plan and treatment for bedsores.
Protecting Your Loved One and Seeking Justice
Bedsores are not just “part of aging”—they are often a preventable consequence of neglect. Nursing homes have a legal obligation to provide proper care and ensure the health and safety of their residents. If they fail to meet this standard, they can be held accountable for the harm caused.
At The Spizman Firm , we are dedicated to protecting the rights of nursing home residents and their families. If your loved one has suffered bedsores or other injuries due to neglect, we are here to help. Our experienced attorneys serve clients throughout Georgia, including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you fight for the justice your loved one deserves.
Source:
aging.georgia.gov/programs-and-services/long-term-care-ombudsman-program
