When a person in Maryland is in need of extensive care due to age or health concerns, a nursing home might be the wisest choice. However, family members need to make sure that the facility they choose pays attention to the residents, cares for them and provides them medication and nutrition. Part of adequate care is ensuring that nursing home residents do not develop bedsores.
Dangerous health problems can result from bedsores
Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, stem from people lying down or sitting in the same position for an extended period without moving. They are generally on the extremities, back and buttocks. Risky health complications can result from bedsores. These include infections of the bones and joints, cellulitis, cancer and sepsis.
With bone and joint issues, tissue and cartilage can be damaged and their functionality impacted. Cellulitis is when the skin becomes infected, and there is clear damage to the area with swelling, warmth to the touch and redness. If the bedsore is left untreated, it can rise in severity to a form of cancer. Although it is uncommon, sepsis can happen. Organs begin to malfunction, and people go into shock and even die. If nursing home bedsores occur, it is important for those who failed to provide proper care to be held accountable.
There are options if a loved one suffers bedsores
Finding out that a loved one who was placed in a nursing home for treatment and comfort suffered a complication like bedsores will be a shock. Facilities are responsible for ensuring that their residents receive everything needed to avoid this. If staff members are derelict in that duty, it is essential for the victim and his or her loved ones to understand their legal options. Having professional advice is key when assessing a case of negligence.
