Dangers of Pressure Sores

Any individual who remains in the same position for prolonged periods of time is at risk for developing pressure sores or bed sores.  Pressure sores are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue that are caused by extended periods of pressure, most commonly found in places such as the ankles, back, hips, and tailbone.  For individuals in nursing homes or those who are admitted to the hospital for extended periods of time, bed sores can be a serious and potentially dangerous problem, especially when care workers do not take proper precautions to prevent them.

Risk Factors for Pressure Sores

While long periods of little movement can result in bed sores in anyone, some other factors can increase an individual’s risk for developing bed sores, including:

• Medical conditions that impair blood flow
• Cognitive impairment
• Bowel or bladder incontinence
• A history of ulcers
• Poor nutrition or hydration
• Certain medical conditions, including Diabetes Mellitus, coronary disease, renal disease, and paralysis
• Age, as skin becomes weaker and more prone to bed sores with age

In nursing homes and hospitals, care providers play a major role in the prevention and treatment of pressure sores by identifying at risk patients and taking measures to stop sores from developing in the first place. However, when employees fail to execute this important job properly, individuals can suffer from the dangerous, and potentially deadly, consequences of bed sores.

If you or a loved one has suffered from pressure sores because of a negligent nursing home or hospital employee, the Fort Smith personal injury attorneys at McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm are here to provide you with the advice and aggressive representation that you need.  Call our offices today at (479) 783-0036 to learn more.