Prevention of Bed Sores | Elder Abuse Attorney Steven Peck

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

Bed sores are much easier to prevent than treat. We must be vigilant, inspecting skin regularly, especially skin covering bony areas. If it is swollen, torn, shiny, discoloured (red, ashen purple), feels warm, or has pus, it is worth attention. If the bed sores were caused by abuse or neglect, contact elder abuse attorney Steven Peck right away!

Bed Sore Prevention Steps

Caregivers should reposition clients regularly or encourage them to reposition themselves regularly where possible. Cushions (foam, gel, water-filled, air-filled) placed appropriately are helpful. Special mattresses, wedges, and pads are designed to protect ‘at-risk’ areas. Consult a physiotherapist for advice.

It is important to exercise good personal hygiene (mild soap and water). Manage urinary and bowel incontinence with hygiene practices, make frequent diaper changes where appropriate, and apply protective barrier creams. Protect potentially moist areas with talcum powder and protect dry areas with moisturising lotions and barrier creams.

Zinc oxide is a common ingredient in these.

More serious bed sores, which have broken skin or craters with dead flesh, require medical attention. Necrotic flesh (dead and infected) makes sores difficult to heal.
Hydrocolloid adhesive dressings keep the bedsore environment moist while protecting it from contamination. Antibiotic creams control infection.

Debridement is a method of removing necrotic flesh, and agents like collagenase and papain/chlorophyll are helpful. However,debridement surgery may be necessary.

– from Steven Peck, Senior Attorney at Peck Law Group

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.