Bed Sores also known as Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers are open wounds on the skin

Bed Sores also known as Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers are open wounds on the skin.  They occur due to the breakdown of skin and underlying tissues through excessive pressure on an area of the skin. Some of the symptoms of Bed Sores, Pressure Ulcers, and Decubitus Ulcers are redness of the skin that worsens with time, and blisters on the area and then an open sore. They commonly occur on the elbows, back of the head, buttocks, heels, shoulders, hips, ankles, and back.

In many instances without careful re-positioning and proper observation the Bed Sores can become easily infected, causing sepsis and septic shock, a serious blood infection, that may lead to wrongful death.  it is important that any loved one who resides in a long term care facility and does not have the ability to turn themselves routinely, receive proper re-positioning so that the incidence of Bed Sores, Pressure Ulcers, and Decubitus Ulcers does not occur.

Make sure that before you place your loved one in any long term care facility, that you have had the opportunity to question the facilities policy and history of any incidents regarding Bed Sores, Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers.

if in fact your loved one has acquired a serious Bed Sore, make sure that it is evaluated and treated promptly, and if severe, a wound care specialist must be contacted immediately.

http://www.medicare.gov/NursingHomeCompare/Resources/Downloadable-Database.html and http://hfcis.cdph.ca.gov/servicesAndFacilities.aspx

About the Author

Attorney Steven Peck has been practicing law since 1981. A former successful business owner, Mr. Peck initially focused his legal career on business law. Within the first three years, after some colleagues and friend’s parents endured nursing home neglect and elder abuse, he continued his education to begin practicing elder law and nursing home abuse law.