Bed Sores

Pressure sores, commonly known as Bed Sores, are a serious health condition which can occur when a person stays in one position for a prolonged period of time without moving. A pressure sore occurs when the skin breaks down and a wound develops. Excess moisture on the skin is also a contributing cause of pressure sores. Bed sores differ in the severity of damage to the skin and range from unbroken skin which is discolored to severe wounds which are deep enough that muscle or bone is exposed.

Where do bed sores appear on the body? In bedridden individuals, pressure sores most often appear on the lower back below the waist, the hip bone and heels. In individuals who spend a majority of time in a chair or wheelchair, where the sore develops depends on the sitting position. Bed sores can develop on the knees, ankles, shoulder blades, back of the head and spine, or wherever bones cause the greatest pressure on the skin. If you believe that you or someone you love has bed sores that are not being properly treated, contact our highly trained Los Angeles Elder Abuse Attorneys.

Federal law requires that Nursing Homes ensure that residents do not develop pressure sores, and, if a resident has pressure sores, they must provide the necessary treatment to promote healing, prevent infection, and prevent more sores from developing. (42 CFR §483.25)

Pressure sores can be prevented by following these guidelines:

  • It is important that skin remains clean and dry. Caretakers must change diapers and wet clothing often so that skin is not in contact with urine. A clothe or sponge should be used when cleaning skin along with mild soap and moisturizer.
  • Individuals in bed must change position at leas every two hours
  • When individuals are lying on their back, their heels should be kept off the bed by placing a pillow under the lower calves. The pillow should never be placed under the knees because this can reduce blood flow to the leg.
  • When individuals are in a wheelchair or chair and can move themselves, they should be monitored so that they shift their weight every fifteen minutes
  • If an individual in a chair or wheelchair cannot shift positions, a nursing home attendant must move them into a different position every hour
  • Caretakers should inspect the skin of patients at least once a day. They should recognize any area that appears red.

It is important that skin remains clean and dry. Caretakers must change diapers and wet clothing often so that skin is not in contact with urine. A clothe or sponge should be used when cleaning skin along with mild soap and moisturizer.

If you believe that you or someone you know is not receiving the care necessary to prevent bedsores, contact our skilled Elder Abuse Attorneys.

Bed Sores