Bedsores in Nursing Homes: Why They’re a Red Flag for Neglect
Understanding Bedsores in Nursing Homes
When families trust a nursing home to care for a loved one, they expect safe, attentive treatment. Unfortunately, bedsores—also called pressure ulcers—often reveal that a facility is failing in its duty of care. These painful wounds develop when a resident remains in one position for too long, cutting off blood supply to the skin.
In many cases, the presence of pressure ulcers is a sign that a facility is not providing adequate attention, hygiene, or repositioning for residents. If you believe your loved one is suffering from this type of neglect, a qualified nursing home abuse lawyer can help you take legal action.
Why Pressure Ulcers Signal Neglect
Pressure ulcers typically form in areas where skin covers bony parts of the body, such as heels, hips, or the tailbone. In a well-run nursing home, staff members should routinely reposition residents, monitor skin health, and ensure proper nutrition and hydration.
When these steps are ignored, residents can develop severe wounds that may lead to infections, sepsis, and even death. This level of harm isn’t just medical—it’s legal, because it shows the facility failed to meet accepted care standards. That’s why families often consult a nursing home abuse lawyer in Columbia, SC when bedsores are discovered.
Stages of Pressure Ulcers and Their Severity
Pressure Ulcers progress through four main stages:
Stage 1: Early Signs
- Red, irritated skin that may feel warm or firm to the touch.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area.
- Still reversible with immediate care.
Stage 2: Skin Damage
- Open wounds or blisters develop.
- Pain increases and infection risk rises.
Stage 3: Deep Wounds
- Damage extends below the skin into fat tissue.
- High risk of infection and longer recovery time.
Stage 4: Critical Injury
- Muscle, bone, or tendons are exposed.
- Severe risk of life-threatening infection.
Any nursing home that allows a resident to progress past Stage 1 without intervention is neglecting its duty of care.
Causes of Pressure Ulcers in Nursing Homes
Several factors contribute to the development of pressure ulcers, including:
- Lack of Regular Repositioning – Residents left in bed or a wheelchair for hours.
- Poor Nutrition and Hydration – Weak skin is more prone to injury.
- Unclean Conditions – Moisture from soiled bedding or clothing can worsen wounds.
- Understaffing – Too few caregivers to meet residents’ needs.
In many cases, these conditions point to systemic problems within the facility.
The Legal Responsibility of Nursing Homes
South Carolina law requires nursing homes to provide care that meets reasonable professional standards. This includes preventing avoidable injuries such as bedsores. When facilities fail, families may have grounds to pursue a legal claim for negligence or abuse.
An experienced Columbia nursing home abuse lawyer can investigate records, interview staff, and work with medical experts to prove that the facility’s inaction caused harm.
Steps to Take if You Discover Pressure Ulcers
If you notice signs of pressure ulcers on your loved one, take immediate action:
- Document the Injury – Take photographs of the wounds, noting the date.
- Request Medical Evaluation – Ensure a doctor documents the injury and provides treatment.
- File a Complaint – Report the issue to South Carolina’s Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
- Consult an Attorney – Contact a nursing home abuse lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Quick action can prevent further harm and strengthen your legal case.
Potential Compensation for Pressure Ulcer Cases
Victims of nursing home neglect may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to treating the injury
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Relocation costs to a safer facility
- In severe cases, wrongful death damages
An attorney will evaluate the case to determine the full extent of damages and fight for a fair settlement.
Why Legal Help is Critical
Pressure ulcers are often a symptom of deeper problems—poor staffing, inadequate training, or profit-driven neglect. Facilities may try to downplay the injury or shift blame onto the resident’s medical condition.
Hiring a skilled nursing home abuse lawyer in Columbia, SC ensures that the facility is held accountable and that your loved one’s rights are protected.
Final Thoughts
Bedsores in nursing homes are more than just a medical issue—they are a clear warning sign of neglect. If your loved one has suffered this type of injury, it’s important to act quickly to protect their health and legal rights. An experienced nursing home abuse lawyer can help you gather evidence, navigate the legal process, and hold the facility responsible.
When you see the signs, don’t wait—contact a dedicated legal advocate today.