California Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Lawyer Steven Peck Explains What Transpires When a Pressure Sore, Bed Sore, or Decubitus Ulcer Becomes Infected

Written by Adam Peck Category: Nursing Homes January 23rd, 2013 2 min read

Pressure sores that become infected heal more slowly and can spread a dangerous infection to the rest of your body. If you notice any of the signs of infection listed below, call your doctor right away.

Signs of an infected pressure sore include the following:

Thick yellow or green pus
A bad smell from the sore
Redness or warmth around the sore
Swelling around the sore
Tenderness around the sore

Signs that the infection may have spread include the following:

Fever
Chills
Mental confusion or difficulty concentrating
Rapid heartbeat
Weakness

How are infected pressure sores treated?

The treatment of an infected pressure sore depends on how bad the infection is. If only the sore itself is infected, an antibiotic ointment can be put on the sore. When bone or deeper tissue is infected, antibiotics are often required. They can be given intravenously (through a needle put in a vein) or orally (by mouth).

How can I tell if the sore is getting better?

As a pressure sore heals, it slowly gets smaller. Less fluid drains from it. New, healthy tissue starts growing at the bottom of the sore. This new tissue is light red or pink and looks lumpy and shiny. It may take 2 to 4 weeks of treatment before you see these signs of healing.

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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.