Are Bedsore Injuries at Nursing Homes Cause for Legal Action?

Nursing Home Law Firm in Henderson, NV

When the human body comes into contact with pressure from an object (most commonly, beds, wheelchairs, and casts) for a prolonged period of time, so-called “pressure ulcers” can develop. In the context of hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities, these painful ulcers are often referred to as bedsores. If left untreated, bedsores can become infected and can even lead to blood poisoning. As a result, hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities are required to engage in certain practices designed to prevent pressure ulcers from forming and to treat them seriously if they do develop. 

What’s Next if Your Loved One Has Developed Bedsores

If you’ve noticed that your loved one has developed minor bedsores, it may be time to speak with an attorney, although it is not necessarily time to panic. Sometimes, minor pressure ulcers develop even when best practices are being adhered to; they simply serve as evidence that your loved one needs extra attention and care so that they can avoid developing any additional ulcers once these have been successfully treated. However, they can also serve as a sign that your loved one may be suffering neglect or abuse in other forms. As a result, it is generally a good idea to speak with an attorney, even if you don’t end up taking action at this time. 

By contrast, if you’ve noticed that your loved one has developed significant, chronic, or infected bedsores, it’s important to take action immediately. Your loved one is in serious medical danger and is almost certainly being neglected or abused to some degree. There may be a single caregiver neglecting their duty, or the facility itself may be to blame. Either way, it’s time to explore your legal options now and there’s no time to wait. 

Legal Assistance Is Available

If you have noticed that your loved one who resides in a nursing home or long-term care facility has developed bed sores or any other suspect condition, please schedule a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney today. It is both important not to make any assumptions about your legal situation until you’ve spoken with an attorney and it is important to seek legal guidance if you suspect (on any level) that your loved one may be suffering from abuse or neglect. Speaking with an attorney doesn’t commit you to taking action against the nursing home or even filing a report. What seeking legal counsel does is allow you to ask questions and determine next steps in an informed way. Your loved one may not be capable of speaking up or may be too afraid of telling you the truth. It’s important to speak with an attorney well-versed in nursing home neglect and abuse issues to get a better sense of whether further investigation into your loved one’s situation is necessary at this time.

For more information, contact a nursing home law firm in Henderson, NV such as  Eric Roy Law Firm.