Bed Sores, Pressure Sores and Decubitus Ulcers Are Caused By a Lack Of Repositioning And May Be Fatal

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

Bedsores, also called pressure sores or pressure ulcers, are a common problem for people who are trapped in the same position for extended periods of time. This includes the disabled as well as the elderly. and the bedridden Frustratingly, bedsores, pressure sores and decubitus ulcers are a dangerous condition that can form quickly and are usuallyare difficult to heal.

First, anyone is at risk for developing pressure sores, bed sores and decubitus ulcers, are usually the elderly, bedridden, and those in wheel chairs.

Bedsores occur when a certain position or article of clothing cuts off the circulation to a small area of your body. Over time, prolonged loss of circulation can cause parts of your body to itch and hurt, as well as feel warm, spongy, or firm to the touch. If this area continues to suffer from a lack of fresh blood and oxygen, it can look like a blister that turns into a crater-like sore. The damage caused by the pressure sore can extend as deep as the bone.

If left untreated, the deep damage caused by the bed sores, pressure ulcers ,and decubitus ulcers can result in long-term health complications. You can develop cellulitis, or an infection of your body’s connective tissue. If the bed sore, pressure sores or decubitus ulcer reaches your bones, it can lead to bone and joint infections like osteomyelitis or septic arthritis, respectively. Should bacteria enter your body through the bedsore, you may endure sepsis, or a bacterial infection of the bloodstream cuasing severe pain and death.

Bedsores are a major concern in nursing homes as elderly residents may be wheelchair-bound or bedridden. It is the responsibility of the nursing home staff to regularly help reposition the residents so that they do not develop pressure ulcers.

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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.