New Jersey Nursing Home Lawyers
Nursing home patients who are immobile are at risk for developing bedsores. Turning patients frequently to prevent bedsores, and prompt treatment of any bedsores which begin to develop, are some of the most basic responsibilities of nursing homes. An untreated bedsore can lead to fatal infection. If your loved one has developed bedsores while residing in a nursing home, please talk to our New Jersey nursing home lawyers right away. It is also imperative that you take pictures of the sores for documentation.
Bedsores and Nursing Home Neglect
Several forms of nursing home neglect can contribute to the development of bedsores and to those bedsores progressing to the point of dangerous infections.
- Failure to turn patients often enough – at least once every two hours in a bed and at least once an hour in a wheelchair
- Allowing moisture to remain close to the skin by failing to change soiled bedding or diapers in a timely manner
- Dehydration and malnutrition
- Failure to check nursing home residents for early signs of bedsores developing
- Failure to provide prompt treatment of bedsores
Dangers of Bedsores
The term “bedsore” does not sound all that threatening. Bedsores are also called pressure sores or decubitus ulcers. Bedsores are painful, but the dangers are far more serious than discomfort. Bedsores can become fatal. They can lead to several types of infection, including gangrene and sepsis. Infection can develop in the bones and joints. Left untreated, some bedsores will even grow so deep that they penetrate internal organs. Chronic bedsores which do not heal can become cancerous. Bedsores are almost all preventable with proper care.
Sepsis occurs when infection moves into the bloodstream. Blood pressure drops and the patient goes into shock. Major organs and the central nervous system begin shutting down. Sepsis can quickly kill an otherwise healthy person. It is even more dangerous for nursing home patients who are already frail or suffering from other health conditions.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of nursing home neglect or abuse in New Jersey, please call our New Jersey nursing home lawyers today or submit an online questionnaire. The initial consultation with our nursing home lawyers is free, and if we agree to represent you, we will work for a contingent fee, which means we won’t get paid for our services unless you receive a settlement or an award. In New Jersey, a personal injury lawsuit must be filed before the expiration of the statute of limitations. Please call right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.