Bedsores in nursing homes are a common but concerning issue, and their presence often raises questions about the quality of care a resident receives.
For families with loved ones in nursing homes, noticing bed sores can be alarming, and it’s important to watch for signs of neglect or abuse.
In New York, nursing homes are legally obligated to provide adequate care to prevent bed sores and other injuries. When they fail in this duty, it may be a case of nursing home abuse or neglect.
Understanding the connection between bed sores and the quality of care can help families take appropriate action to protect their loved ones. Here, we’ll explore nursing home bed sores and what steps you can take if you believe your loved one has been a victim.
What Are Bed Sores?
Bed sores, or pressure ulcers, are skin and underlying tissue injuries caused by prolonged pressure. They often develop in elderly or immobile patients who cannot change positions frequently, leading to reduced blood flow and tissue damage.
Bed sores typically form on areas of the body where the skin covers bony prominences, such as the hips, heels, and tailbone.
Bed sores progress through stages, starting with mild skin redness (Stage 1) and worsening to open wounds that expose muscle or bone (Stage 4) if not treated promptly. Early detection and intervention are critical to prevent severe complications.
Are Bed Sores a Sign of Nursing Home Abuse in New York?
Bed sores can be a sign of serious issues in a nursing home, but it’s important to understand the difference between neglect and abuse. Neglect occurs when a nursing home fails to provide the necessary care, leading to harm such as bed sores.
Abuse, on the other hand, involves intentional harm or mistreatment of a resident. While bed sores are more commonly associated with neglect, severe or recurring cases may suggest abuse.
In New York, nursing homes are legally required to provide adequate care to prevent bed sores and other injuries. Signs that bed sores may be due to neglect or abuse include:
- Unexplained or recurring sores,
- Lack of proper hygiene and repositioning, and
- Delayed medical attention for existing sores.
New York law holds nursing homes accountable for failing to meet these standards. If bed sores develop due to inadequate care, the facility may be liable for neglect or abuse through a nursing home bed sores lawsuit.
Can You Sue a Nursing Home for Bed Sores?
Yes. You can file a lawsuit for bedsores in nursing homes if they are a result of abuse or neglect. If you suspect that your loved one’s bed sores are due to inadequate care, the first step is to document the signs and speak with the nursing home administration. If the issue is unresolved, you can file a complaint with the New York State Department of Health.
If abuse or neglect is proven, you may be able to pursue a legal claim for damages.
Contact an Experienced New York Attorney Today
We trust nursing home staff to treat our loved ones with care and respect. If you have a loved one who has suffered bed sores in a New York nursing home and suspect abuse or neglect, having an experienced attorney to help can make a big difference in your outcome.
With offices in New York and Florida, we can help residents in both states get the justice they deserve if they notice their loved one suffering from bed sores.
The professionals at the Law Offices of Theodore A. Naima will fight to protect your loved one’s rights. Call us to schedule a consultation or contact us online.
Theodore A. Naima
Theodore A. Naima is the founding partner of the Law Offices of Theodore A. Naima, a Personal Injury & Medical Malpractice Law Firm based in New York. In 2015, Ted was awarded the prestigious AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, the company that has long been recognized as setting the gold standard for lawyer ratings, signifying the highest degree of peer recognition and professional excellence.
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