Bed Sores, Decubitus Ulcers and Pressure Sores Are Very Painful

Written by Adam Peck Category: Elder Law January 26th, 2013 2 min read

Pressure sores or bed sores are painful skin ulcers that form when constant pressure on a part of the body shuts down the blood vessels feeding that area of skin. The resulting damage first appears on the skin surface as a red or dark patch. As the pressure sore progresses, the skin will break down to form blisters, dead skin, and ultimately infect underlying tissues, bones and joints. As little as two hours of sustained pressure will trigger skin damage. Skin damage can also be exacerbated by friction and moisture. The surface damage is just the tip of the iceberg; the real damage lies beneath the skin.

In the early stages, pressure sores can be treated at home by relieving the pressure, cleaning the sores and applying the appropriate dressing. In the later stages of severity, professional medical treatment, possibly, surgery, will be necessary. Pressure sores are especially prevalent on the lower back and buttocks, and on bony protruding areas, such as shoulders, hips, knees, heels and ankles. People who are bed-bound or in wheelchairs are particularly susceptible.
Things You Should Know

Pressure sores

* are caused by pressure, friction and moisture
* prolong the amount of time a person spends in the hospital
* increase risk of infection
* increase mortality
* represent an extra $10,000 a year in medical and nursing care costs, per person

Top

Risk Factors for Pressure Sores

* age
* immobility
* incontinence
* malnutrition and dehydration
* diseases and disorders that slow healing or lessen mental awareness
* diseases and disorders such as confusion or dementia that lessen mental awareness and may prevent a person from feeling the discomfort of a harmful body position
* medications, particularly sedatives

Top
Things to Look For

Warning signs of pressure sores

* discolored, torn or swollen skin, especially over bony areas
* signs of infection — skin warmth, swelling, odor, pus

Seek professional care and treatment immediately for sores that are getting worse, not healing, or showing signs of infect

Share it

Questions? Check with Peck Today

Blog Lead Form

Elder Abuse and Neglect in Assisted Living Facilities

Elopement in Nursing Homes

Assisted Living Abuse

Settlement Reached in Assisted Living Facility Death

Assisted Living Abuse and Neglect Attorneys

Written by Adam Peck

Expertise: Personal Injury

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.