Osteomyelitis Is a Bone Infection Caused By Bacteria Which Forms in the Open Wounds of Bed Sores, Pressure Sores, and Decubitus Ulcers

Written by Adam Peck Category: Bed Sores January 26th, 2013 2 min read

Osteomyelitis

When instances of nursing home neglect and abuse lead to bed sores, pressure sores, and decubitus ulcers says California Nursing Home Abuse and neglect Attorney Steven C. Peck patients are placed at a greater risk of contracting bacterial infections.

One of the most common bacterial infections associated with nursing home neglect is osteomyelitis. Osteomyelitis is a bone infection caused by the bacteria which formed in the open wound of a bed sore. Symptoms of osteomyelitis include bone pain, high fevers, nausea, chills, excessive sweating, lower back pain, swelling of the ankles, feet and legs, and swelling, redness and warmth around the affected area.

Early detection and prompt treatment is crucial in the healing process of osteomyelitis. Testing should be conducted at the first sign of a possible infection. These tests may include blood cultures, bone lesion biopsies, bone scans, MRIs and needle aspirations of the area around the affected bone.

Once a patient has been diagnosed with osteomyelitis, antibiotics are commonly used in order to kill the bacteria that are causing the infection. If negligent care continues and the infection is not treated in a timely manner, the infection will spread. In these severe cases surgery may be needed to remove dead bone tissue. After surgery, the open space left by the removed bone tissue may be filled with a bone graft or packing material which will aid in the growth of new bone tissue.

With any surgical procedure that is performed on a nursing home patient, there are risks of complications and additional injuries. If you or your loved one has had to have surgery as a result of negligent care received in a nursing home or hospital you should speak with one of our attorneys to learn what your legal rights and remedies may be.

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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.