LEITNER VARUGHESE NURSING HOME LAWYERS
Mar 2, 2018
What is a Pressure Ulcer?
A pressure ulcer, sometimes called a “bedsore” or “decubitus ulcer,” is an injury to the skin and underlying tissue caused by unrelieved pressure or pressure in combination with shearing (often from sliding down in bed). These ulcers usually occur on the buttocks, hips, heels, elbows and shoulders. These body parts are under the most pressure when you are lying in bed or sitting for long periods of time.
Can Complications Develop from Pressure Ulcers?
Yes. Pressure ulcers can cause pain, increase the risk for infection, and may slow recovery from another illness or surgical procedure.
Can Pressure Ulcers be Prevented?
Most of the time. By assessing what puts you at risk for pressure ulcers, your care team is able to determine the best possible prevention plan for you!
Factors that Can Increase the Risk of Pressure Ulcers
Advanced age
Impaired nutritional status (including not eating or drinking enough)
Decreased ability or inability to move independently
Loss of ability to change and control body position
Moisture, including loss of bowel or bladder control
Confusion or a change in mental status
Certain medications and use of various medical devices
Decreased sensation or ability to feel
Certain illnesses such as diabetes and circulatory diseases
A previous pressure ulcer
Obesity
Check the skin daily.
Look for:
Redness or any color changes
Changes in temperature
Broken skin
Pain
Drainage
Discomfort or itching
Swelling
Odor
Prevention
Keep skin clean and well-lubricated; manage excessive moisture.
Use a mild cleanser for bathing and pat skin dry.
Bath water should be warm but not hot.
Do not massage (rub) bony areas (such as the hips and elbows.)
Ensure adequate nutrition.
Fluids, protein and calories are important for maintaining healthy skin.
Ask a health care provider to help determine the right diet for you.
Change positions.
In bed: every two hours.
In a chair: at least every hour.
If able to move independently:
Shift position every 15 minutes while sitting.
Ask a health care provider about devices to help increase mobility and decrease pressure.
For more information, see https://www.albany.edu/sph/cphce/goldstamp_patient_family_brochure.pdf
Leitner Varughese is a cutting-edge litigation and trial law firm uniquely experienced in handling high-profile, complex lawsuits involving serious injuries and wrongful death. The Firm has specific interest in handling cases of neglect and abuse involving nursing home residents. In just the past few years, the Firm's Partners have facilitated in the recovery of over $100 million on behalf of clients that were injured as a result of car and truck accidents, construction accidents (involving New York State Labor Law violations), slip/trip and falls, and defective pharmaceuticals, including the recovery of over $50 million alone in verdicts and settlements on behalf of the victims of nursing home neglect and abuse.