Naples Hospital Bed Sores Attorney
Those who are sick or injured expect top-notch medical care from hospital staff. Doctors, nurses, and administrators must meet standards of care for patients. While mistakes do happen, no patient should have to suffer from bed sores.
Bed sores occur when a person is in the same position for too long. They tend to appear in bony areas of the body. Even minor ones can be painful. The truth is that bed sores are preventable and should never occur.
Hospitals have a duty to provide the best care possible to patients. If a hospital went below this standard of care, contact Kohn Law to see how we can help. Speak to a Naples hospital bed sores attorney today.
Who is at Risk?
There are several types of patients who face a high risk of developing bed sores:
- Patients with severe injuries. A person who has been hospitalized due to a severe injury with their extremities faces a high risk of bedsores because they cannot move very well.
- Patients in the ICU. Patients who are seriously ill and receiving care in a hospital’s intensive care unit usually suffer from mobility issues and cannot turn themselves to avoid bed sores.
- Patients with certain risk factors. Those with incontinence or circulation issues are more prone to bedsores. Therefore, hospital staff need to ensure that these patients are repositioned every few hours or so to minimize the risk of developing bedsores.
- Patients with certain medical conditions. Those who have diabetes tend to have diminished sensation in certain body parts. This is concerning, since they may be unaware of pain or pressure problems and won’t think to change positions often. Those with rheumatoid arthritis are also at a higher risk of developing bedsores, as are patients with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, and other cognitive disorders.
- Patients with poor diet. Patients with malnourishment or dehydration should be monitored by hospital staff to ensure that they are changing position regularly.
Stages of Bed Sores
There are four stages of bed sores:
- Stage 1. This is the most minor type of bed sore. The area may look red and feels warm to the touch. The patient may complain of pain, burning sensation, or itchiness.
- Stage 2. In this stage, there is more damage. There may be an open sore or blister, as well as significant pain and discolored skin.
- Stage 3. At this stage, there is damage below the skin’s surface and the bed sore has a crater-like appearance.
- Stage 4. This is the most severe type of bed sore. There is a large wound that not only affects the skin, but also tendons, muscles, bones, and joints. Infection is possible.
Contact Kohn Law Today
Bed sores can happen to any person who is in the hospital for an extended period of time. While many of these injuries are minor, some are more severe in nature and can lead to infections and other serious medical conditions.
If you or a loved one has been affected, you need effective legal representation. Seek legal help from Kohn Law. We’ll assess your case and help you understand your options. Speak with a Naples hospital bed sores attorney today by filling out the online form or calling (813) 428-8504.
