Settings Encouraging Bedsores in Maryland Nursing Homes

Pressure ulcers, more commonly known as bedsores, are a major problem in nursing homes, mainly because elderly individuals are at an increased risk of developing them. When a patient is left in a single position for an extended time, the skin against the surface of their bed or wheelchair can develop pressure ulcers.

Although most are treatable with simple cleaning and dressing, other, more extensive types of bedsores can cause bone damage, cancer, and additional infections. If they are left untreated, they can even result in death or the amputation of an affected limb or body part.

If you have questions about settings encouraging bedsores in Maryland nursing homes, the following information may be valuable. Also, if your loved one suffered bedsores, reach out to a dedicated bedsores lawyer today.

Inattentive Nursing Home Staffs

Nursing homes with inattentive staff members may notice their patients suffer from bedsores at a higher rate than the general population. This is largely because bedridden patients require around-the-clock monitoring, and occasionally, they must be repositioned so they do not develop bedsores. Changing the texture of the surface a patient sleeps on can be highly effective as well, but only if nursing home staff members are vigilant and dedicated to maintaining the health of their patients.

Sometimes, bedsores are unavoidable, especially when a nursing home becomes responsible for patients who were previously independent. Due to certain medical conditions, such as dementia, or a loss of mobility, these patients may have already developed bedsores in their previous environments.

To prevent the formation or exacerbation of bedsores, nursing home staff members should be aware of the symptoms associated with bedsores. They should also be encouraged by facility administrators to immediately seek medical treatment for patients who have developed bedsores. Swift and effective medical treatment can often prevent bedsores from causing additional infections and pain.

Bedsores and Unsanitary Settings

Bedsores occur when body tissue becomes infected, and as most medical professionals know, infections of all types tend to thrive in unclean environments. Nursing homes, like any other medical facility, need to be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure they are clean and healthy. Patient rooms may need additional attention, and nursing homes should always make sure cleanliness is one of their top priorities.

Patients who sleep on unclean surfaces, such as sheets and mattresses, are usually at increased risk of developing bedsores. This is primarily because such surfaces are already teeming with bacteria, which can easily come in contact with open sores on the skin, especially when they are left in one position for an extended period of time.

Unsanitary settings encouraging bedsores in Maryland nursing homes are often noticeable. If a nursing home looks dirty, unsanitary, or unkempt, its patients are probably at an increased risk of developing bedsores.

Treating Bedsores

Treating bedsores is a relatively simple process, especially if they have not spread to the other parts of the body. Common bedsores are often treated by:

• Cleaning and dressing the affected area. Cleaning removes bacteria and dressings prevent moisture and additional bacteria from seeping in
• Antibiotics to prevent further infection
• Pain relievers to reduce pain, swelling, and redness

If a bedsore penetrates the bone or deep tissue, surgical intervention may be required.

Learn About the Numerous Settings Encouraging Bedsores in Maryland Nursing Homes

There are numerous settings encouraging bedsores in Maryland nursing homes and other medical facilities. Fortunately, most of these facilities take the steps necessary to prevent their patients from developing such infections. Those who do not should be held accountable if their patients routinely develop bedsores.

If you or someone you care about developed bedsores while in the care of a nursing facility, it may be beneficial to contact a nursing home attorney.