Severity of Bedsores, Pressure Sores and Decubitus Ulcers and the Potential for Death

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

There are four stages of bedsores. A stage IV bedsore is the deepest and most serious stage. This sore extends from the skin and soft tissue into the muscle, tendon or bone. Someone suffering from a stage IV bedsore requires immediate medical attention by a doctor, nurse or other qualified nursing home professional, due to the extreme seriousness of the injury. Stage III bedsores, while generally not life-threatening, are still very serious injuries that extend into the subcutaneous tissue layer under the skin, inhibiting the blood supply says California Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Attorney Steven C. Peck.

A Stage II bedsore is an open wound that looks like a bruise or blister. Some of the skin has worn away and the area around the sore is discolored. Stage II bedsores typically heal quickly, if there is medical attention. A Stage I bedsore is an area of red, irritated skin that may hurt to the touch. Stage I bedsores go away once a person is moved, but can develop into more serious bedsores if nothing is done. Bedsores at any stage can be serious due to their potential to progress if not treated expeditiously and correctly.

Bedsores, also known by the terms pressure sores, pressure ulcers, and decubitus ulcers, are serious, sometimes devastating and disfiguring injuries. In order to avoid bedsores, a nursing home must exercise extra care for patients confined to their beds.

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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.