When family members make the difficult decision to place a loved one in a nursing home, they do so with the expectation that their relative will receive the best possible care and attention. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are a common and serious problem that can occur in nursing home residents, particularly those who are immobile or have limited mobility. These injuries not only cause significant discomfort and pain but can also lead to severe infections and other health complications if not properly treated. Recognizing the seriousness of this issue is the first step toward addressing it and ensuring the well-being of nursing home residents.
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., we understand the challenges faced by families when a loved one suffers from bedsores due to neglect or inadequate care in a nursing home setting. Our dedicated team is committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals in care facilities. By providing legal guidance and support, we help families navigate the complexities of personal injury claims related to nursing home negligence. Our goal is to hold responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation needed to cover medical treatment, pain and suffering, and any other related costs.
Understanding Bedsores: Causes, Prevention, and Signs
Bedsores develop when continuous pressure is applied to the same area of the skin for an extended period, cutting off blood flow to the tissue. This is particularly common in areas with bone close to the skin, such as heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone. Individuals who are unable to change their position regularly due to illness, age, or disability are at a higher risk. Preventing bedsores involves routine repositioning, proper nutrition, and skin care, measures that nursing homes are obligated to provide.
The first sign of a bedsore is often a red, painful area on the skin that does not turn white when pressed. Without immediate attention, these areas can quickly deteriorate, creating open wounds that penetrate deeper into the skin, muscle, and even bone. In advanced stages, bedsores can lead to serious infections, including sepsis and cellulitis. It is crucial for nursing home staff to identify and address these early signs promptly to prevent further harm to the resident.
Prevention is key to managing bedsores, and it requires a concerted effort from nursing home staff. This includes regular skin assessments, ensuring residents are moved and repositioned at least every two hours, maintaining skin hygiene, and providing adequate nutrition and hydration. These steps are not just best practices; they are essential duties that nursing homes must perform to safeguard the health and well-being of their residents.
Legal Rights and Recourse for Victims and Their Families
Families who discover that their loved one has developed bedsores while in a nursing home may feel betrayed and unsure about what to do next. It is important to understand that nursing homes are legally required to provide a standard of care that prevents bedsores from occurring. When they fail to meet this standard, they can be held liable for the resulting harm. This legal accountability is not only about seeking compensation for the victim but also about ensuring that such negligence does not happen to others.
Taking legal action begins with gathering evidence of neglect, such as medical records, photos of the bedsores, and witness statements. This documentation can support claims that the nursing home failed in their duty of care. An attorney with experience in nursing home negligence cases can help navigate the legal process, from filing a lawsuit to negotiating a settlement or presenting the case in court.
Victims and their families should know that they are not alone in this struggle. Legal professionals can provide the necessary support and guidance to hold negligent nursing homes accountable. By taking legal action, families can not only seek justice for their loved ones but also help to ensure that nursing homes implement the necessary changes to prevent future occurrences of bedsores and other forms of neglect.
Why Choose Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. for Your Case?
Selecting the right legal representation is crucial when facing the complexities of a nursing home negligence case. Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to every case we handle. Our talented attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of personal injury law, including nursing home negligence and bedsore cases. We work closely with our clients to understand their unique situations and develop tailored strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes. Choosing to work with our firm means benefiting from our commitment to excellence and our dedication to defending your rights.
We believe in providing personal attention and keeping our clients informed throughout the legal process. Our team is prepared to fight tirelessly on your behalf, leveraging our extensive resources and knowledge to secure the compensation and justice you deserve. If you or a family member has suffered from bedsores due to nursing home negligence, do not hesitate to contact us. Our consultations are free, and we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no fees unless we recover on your behalf. Call Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. today at (215) 822-7575 or visit our contact form to get started on your path to recovery and justice.
