Nursing home facilities are designed to provide a safe and caring haven for elderly residents. Unfortunately, cases of neglect can arise, impacting the well-being of those who reside in such facilities. One of the most common consequences of nursing home neglect is residents developing bed sores.
Also known as pressure ulcers, these are skin and underlying tissue injuries. Bed sores occur due to prolonged pressure on the skin, often from sitting lying in one position for extended periods. When residents do not receive proper care, including regular repositioning, hygiene and monitoring, they become vulnerable to the development of painful and potentially debilitating bed sores.
Signs of nursing home neglect
Insufficient staffing levels in nursing homes often contribute directly to neglect. Overworked staff may struggle to provide the necessary attention and care each resident deserves. This can lead to the potential development of bed sores.
Neglected hygiene practices can also create an environment conducive to bed sore development. Residents who are not cleaned regularly may experience skin breakdown, increasing the risk of pressure ulcers. Furthermore, residents with mobility issues are more prone to bed sores if they are not assisted in moving and repositioning. Neglecting to address mobility concerns can exacerbate the problem.
Legal recourse for nursing home neglect
Nursing home residents have rights, including the right to adequate care, dignity and a safe environment. Therefore, if your loved one who resides in a nursing home develops bed sores due to neglect, you can potentially take legal action to hold the facility responsible for its sub-standard care.
Taking legal action can both help your family seek compensation for your loved one’s pain and suffering and also act as a deterrent against future negligence. If your elderly loved one in a nursing home has developed bed sores due to neglect, your first course of action should be to consult a legal team. With the right legal counsel, you can advocate for your loved one’s rights and seek justice for the harm that they have suffered.