Being immobile can seriously affect the body — even the skin. When a person sits or lies in the same position for too long, they can develop pressure sores on their body. More commonly known as bed sores, these wounds tend to develop on the bony areas of the body, such as the ankles, heels, hips, and tailbone.
Bed sores can happen in just a few hours. They develop when blood supply to the skin is cut off for more than several hours. As the skin dies, the bedsore starts out as red and painful. It then turns purple. The skin can then break open and become infected.
In many cases, they will heal on their own. However, you should look for signs of complications, such as swelling, pus, and tender areas.
Bed sores generally happen in nursing homes due to neglect. Staff members need to move or turn over mobile patients frequently to prevent these sores. If left untreated, they can develop into serious health issues such as infection, sepsis, osteomyelitis, and even death. If your loved one has been affected, you need to hold the responsible parties liable for their actions. A Baltimore bed sore lawyer from Furman | Honick Law can help. Contact us today to learn more.
Stages of Bed Sores
Bed sores are classified by four stages, depending on their severity:
- Stage 1. The area is red and warm to the touch. There may be pain or itchiness involved.
- Stage 2. There may be an open sore or blister. The wound may be discolored and the patient is likely suffering from significant pain.
- Stage 3. There is damage below the skin’s surface and the area has a crater-like appearance.
- Stage 4. It is a large wound with severe damage. Muscles, tendons, joints, and bones may be involved. The risk of infection is high.
Anything more severe than stage 4 is not given a stage. This would include full-thickness tissue loss.
Skincare Tips
Here are some ways to prevent bed sores:
- Keep skin clean and dry. Skin should be washed with a gentle cleanser and then pat dry. This should be done daily to reduce exposure to moisture, urine, and stool.
- Protect the skin. Special moisture barrier creams can protect the skin from the effects of urine and stool. Bedding and clothing should be changed as needed.
- Inspect the skin daily. Take a close look at your skin every day to look for warning signs of a bed sore.
Contact Furman | Honick Law Today
Bed sores may not seem serious, but they can develop tissue loss and lead to serious complications such as infections, cellulitis, cancer, and sepsis.
Nurses and other medical professionals are often to blame for these wounds. If you or a loved one has been affected, seek legal help from Furman | Honick Law. We’ll hold the staff and medical facility liable for their negligence. Get started with a free consultation. Call a Baltimore bed sore lawyer at (410) 844-6000 or fill out the online form.