Finding a bed sore on a loved one does not always constitute abuse or neglect. There are situations in which bed sores commonly occur. If you have a loved one being cared for, it is important to understand the prevalence of bed sores in Orange County nursing homes.
Hire a Bed Sores Lawyer in California
If you have a reason to believe that your loved one has developed bed sores in a situation where they should have been prevented, you should hire a bed sores lawyer to review your case. At Hunter Law, PC, we have years of experience in civil litigation involving health care facilities.
Bed Sore Frequency in the United States
Bed sores, also called pressure ulcers, are considered a highly treatable injury in most patients. In fact, Net Health reports that 60% of pressure ulcers are preventable when patients receive proper care and health care providers follow required protocols.
Preventing pressure ulcers from forming is important because patients with a pressure ulcer are 4.5 times more likely to face life-threatening complications compared with similar patients who do not have a pressure ulcer.
During 2024, an estimated 2.5 million American residents developed a bed sore. Treating pressure injuries costs the United States $26.8 billion annually. Even with treatment, nearly 60,000 patients die each year from complications due to pressure injuries.
When filing a claim related to bed sores, residents of Orange County can file in the Orange County Superior Court. There are nine Courthouse locations in Orange County where the Superior Court has jurisdiction to hear cases.
Bed Sore Causes and Prevention
Patients who use wheelchairs and those with mobility issues that require them to sit for long periods are prone to developing bed sores on their buttocks or tailbone, shoulder blades, or along the spine, and on the back of their arms or legs.
Patients who are restricted to lying in bed are prone to developing bed sores on the back or sides of their head, on their shoulder blades, on the hips, lower back, or tailbone, or on their heels, ankles, or the back of their knees.
Bed sores are caused by three main sources:
- Pressure. When pressure is consistently present on the same spot, that pressure decreases blood flow. When blood flow is decreased for an extended period, it can lead to damage to the skin and underlying tissue.
- Friction. When the skin frequently rubs against clothing or bedding, it creates friction that can damage delicate skin. Moist skin is especially prone to friction.
- Shear. When surfaces move against each other in the opposite direction, it causes shear. When the skin is left in this position, it can damage the skin and lead to bed sores.
Pressure, friction, and shear are preventable through proper repositioning. Patients are also less prone to developing bed sores when they have access to proper nutrition, hydration, and are maintained in a hygienic environment.
When bed sores do form, it can be a warning sign of abuse or neglect. Nursing homes that follow appropriate protocols can prevent bed sores from occurring and catch ones that do occur early enough to properly treat them.
The Dangers Posed by Bed Sores
The first signs that a bed sore has formed are often skin discolouration, changes in skin texture, swelling, fluid drainage, soreness, or areas of the skin that feel warm or cold. More advanced bed sores can become infected. Common complications caused by bed sores include:
- Cellulitis, a type of skin and soft tissue infection
- Bone infections may reduce the functioning of limbs.
- Joint infections can damage cartilage and soft tissue.
- Skin cancer that causes nonhealing wounds on the surface of the skin.
- Sepsis is a rare type of infection that can be life-threatening.
FAQs About Bed Sores in Orange County Nursing Homes
Are Bed Sores Common in Nursing Homes?
Unfortunately, bed sores are common in nursing homes. Bed sores are considered highly treatable, especially if caught early. Proper repositioning for patients unable to reposition themselves can also help decrease the risk of developing a bed sore.
In some instances, patients can be at an increased risk of developing a bed sore due to a medical condition. Patients with mobility problems, spinal cord injuries, and conditions that affect blood flow are more likely to develop bed sores.
Can You File a Claim Against a Nursing Home for Bed Sores?
Yes, you can file a claim against a nursing home because of bed sores. Bed sores may be a sign of neglect and are caused by improper repositioning, poor hygiene, or poor nutrition and hydration.
To file a claim against a nursing home, you need strong evidence demonstrating the breach of duty of care that caused the bed sores. You also need evidence that demonstrates the patient suffered from the breach of care and damages occurred.
Are Bed Sores Considered a Sign of Neglect?
Yes, bed sores are considered a sign of neglect since they are highly preventable and treatable during the early stages. Developing a bed sore can be an indication that a patient is dehydrated or malnourished, or that they are not being properly monitored.
Bed sores that have progressed can be a sign that the patient has not received adequate medical care. Poor hygiene can also be a cause of bed sores and often indicates that the patient has been neglected.
What Is the Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act?
The Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act is a California law that aims to protect elderly residents and dependent adults with limitations from experiencing physical abuse, neglect, abandonment, or financial abuse.
Under this law, residents who experience any form of abuse that causes harm can file a civil claim to recover damages. The law also allows for attorney fees to be recoverable.
Contact Hunter Law, PC
Our team understands how difficult it can be to discover that the residential care facility, nursing facility, hospice company, hospital, or in-home health care aid has been abusing or neglecting your loved one. It is often difficult to know which facilities offer high standards of care.
Our team works hard throughout Orange County to hold these facilities and health care workers accountable when they cause harm to patients. Contact Hunter Law, PC, today to schedule your initial consultation.
