When you visit your loved one at a nursing home, you might notice that they have sores. This is something that must not be ignored because it is one of the warning signs of nursing home abuse. If you discover this, you'll want to contact a nursing home abuse attorney as quickly as possible.

The Reason Behind Bedsores

A body experiences bedsores when it is placed under pressure that isn't relieved. Depending on how bad the bedsores are, they can cause infections that can even be life-threatening. If your loved one is suffering from bedsores, you may notice discoloration or reddening of the skin. They are most likely to appear on the hips, tailbone, and lower back.

The bedsores can be so severe that the problem extends into the muscle and bone. Also, sores might develop around the ankles as a result of not removing a patient's shoes and having the patient remain in a wheelchair for an extended period.

The bedsores result from the patient not being able to move. While a minority of patients suffer from bedsores, it's still enough to be a major problem. It also isn't a problem that is new and bedsores are typically a result of negligence. As a result, there may be other ways that your loved one is being neglected if you discover bedsores. 

Negligence and Bedsores

A hospital might fail to turn patients over often enough, might fail to change soiled sheets, may fail to check and treat bedsores, may fail to notify doctors, and may not be giving the patient enough food and water. If this is the case, you'll want to speak with an elder abuse law specialist about how to proceed.

You will need help from witnesses to prove that your loved one is suffering from neglect. For example, other patients or hospital staff may have witnessed neglect. You will also need help from expert witnesses who will be able to infer what is happening based on the available evidence. 

Bringing the Nursing Home to Justice

There are several ways you can hold the nursing home accountable and you may be able to receive compensation for your loved one's injuries. However, to know where to start, you'll need help from an attorney who is experienced with handling nursing home abuse cases. Sadly, many nursing homes get away with neglect, but that doesn't have to happen with your case.

If you have additional questions, reach out to a local nursing home abuse attorney.

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