What Are Bedsores, Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers?

Written by Adam Peck Category: Bed Sores January 16th, 2017 3 min read

First, what are Bedsores, Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers?

Bedsores, pressure ulcers, and decubitus ulcers begin as inflammation of the skin from prolonged position, which has prevented normal circulation to that localized area of pressure. The longer the person’s skin remains under pressure to that area, the skin sloughs off because it essentially dies from poor circulation. They begin as reddened areas, which serves as the initial warning to initiate therapy, both physical care and topical creams and if not could lead to serious health issues.

How are Bedsores, Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers prevented?

Elderly patients and those who have suffered paralysis or stroke are particularly vulnerable as are those with immobility since they have difficulty sensing pressure and cannot turn away from the pressure area. The body should be kept off of areas of pressure, especially while in bed. One key prevention method is to seek out specialty mattresses like those with foam padding, and make sure that there is extra padding on chairs and wheelchairs. It is also important for the person to maintain healthy diets with adequate protein and carbohydrates and multi-vitamins to supplement their nutritional intake as the lack of sufficient nutrition helps to speed up skin breakdown.

Why are Bedsores, Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers dangerous?

Alarmingly, approximately 60,000 patients die each year from pressure injuries related to a life-threatening infection called sepsis. Usually the bed sore is kept unclean causing an EColi infection, and because of lack of sufficient hygiene, microorganisms can gain access to the blood stream from a pressure wound. Individuals can also suffer some severe deformities from these wounds such as amputations of limbs and huge defects in the body after healing, pressure also can limit mobility, cause severe pain, and can be very foul smelling.

How can Bedsores, Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers be prevented?

Assessment of the backside including the buttock’s, taking note if there has been any change or new redness of that area. Photos must be taken on a regular basis to note if there has been any improvement or worsening.

We can help?

The Peck Law Group, APC has over 41 years of experience in the litigation of elder and / or dependent adult cases throughout the State of California and the United States concerning Bedsores, Pressure Ulcers and Decubitus Ulcers. Call us today for a free case evaluation toll free at (866) 999-9085 or please email us at info@thepecklawgroup.com.

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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.