How long does it take to get a bed sore?

Thursday, April 13, 2023

How long does it take to get a bed sore?

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

For those who have family members who are elderly, a nursing or retirement home can provide a safe, caring place for them to live in their later years. These establishments that are designed for the comfort and care of older adults are typically looking for both a community and easy access to medical support if needed.

Caregivers and staff at a nursing home are frequently medically trained professionals who take their jobs seriously and dedicate their time to providing residents with expert care. That said, there are times when the proper treatment and care are not given, or residents are actually neglected. This can lead to serious physical and mental health risks for the live-in residents of the facility.

Bedsores are a Cause for Concern

One of the most easily visible and recognizable signs of nursing home abuse is the development of bedsores. Bedsores are also referred to as “pressure ulcers” and are skin injuries that are caused by pressure on the skin over an extended amount of time. Bedsores typically develop most quickly on the skin that covers the boniest areas of the body, such as the hips, tailbone, shoulder blades, and spine. They can become infected and lead to even more serious medical issues if not discovered and treated quickly.

Bedsores can begin to form as quickly as within a few hours of inactivity, which is why it is important for caregivers to rotate and provide relief for bedridden patients often.

How to Avoid Bedsores at a Nursing Home

Consistent attention and care is the most effective way to help nursing home residents avoid forming painful and dangerous bedsores. With the elderly population, who are often sedentary and less inclined to move as much on their own, it is especially important for caregivers to help their patients relieve areas of the body that might be under pressure. Some of the techniques that are suggested include:

• Changing the position that a person is in at least every two hours
• Keep people who are prone to being sedentary and bedridden moving as much as and often as possible.
• Even if you can’t move much, stand up to alleviate pressure.
• If you can’t move at all, ask your caregiver to help you adjust your position
• Ask for a special mattress and cushions that are designed to relieve pressure.

These tips can all help to prevent bedsores from forming, which is the best-case scenario. Healing from bedsores is much more difficult and can lead to other medical complications.

Speak with a Chicago Area Elder Abuse Lawyer Today

If you have a reason to believe that someone you love is suffering from nursing home neglect or abuse, it is helpful to speak with an experienced legal professional to learn more about your options. At Malman Law, our team is dedicated to helping those who are experiencing elder abuse, and we understand how challenging this can be.

Contact us as soon as possible to start the conversation and take control of this difficult situation. We are here and ready to advocate on your behalf.