Victims of nursing home neglect often suffer from bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, which are caused by staff members failing to provide support and not repositioning their patients often enough. Without treatment, pressure ulcers can be extremely painful and may require surgery to heal completely. If you notice bedsores on your loved one, a skilled nursing home lawyer can help them collect compensation for the neglect they’ve suffered. But first, the wounds must be treated.

How to Identify Bedsores

Bedsores are caused by prolonged pressure against the skin and typically appear on bony parts of the body, especially the hips, tailbone, heels, and ankles. Depending on the depth and severity of the condition, they may appear as red blemishes with an unusual texture or deep wounds that impact the muscle and bone. The area will usually be swollen, feel cool or hot to the touch, and may also be leaking pus.

Treatment for Bedsores

The most important thing to do is relieve the pressure immediately by adjusting the patient’s position and continuing to move them at least every two hours. Using support surfaces like cushions or special mattresses can help you keep your loved one comfortable while protecting the most vulnerable parts of their body.

Once the wounds are carefully cleaned and bandaged, nursing home lawyers say it’s important to check the patient’s diet to ensure they’re getting enough nutrition. Healing requires protein, and adjusting their nutrition levels can promote a faster recovery with fewer complications. You should also take steps to ensure they’re getting enough water, as dehydration can inhibit healing and compromise their immune system. Finally, get them to a skilled physician as soon as possible.

If your loved one is being neglected in a retirement facility, the nursing home lawyers at Reed Law Offices PC, LLC in Omaha, NE, are dedicated to achieving justice on their behalf. Their highly skilled legal team focuses closely on nursing home abuse and neglect cases, giving them the ability to provide an unmatched level of service to all their clients. Visit their website or call (402) 933-0588 to arrange a free consultation with a skilled attorney today.