Pressure sores or bed sores a.k.a. “decubitus ulcers” are simply unacceptable to arise in the nursing home and hospital context. Worse, they should not go so untreated that they become septic resulting in potential premature – or wrongful – death.
In fact, one part of Federal Law requires that quality care be provided nursing home residents:
Each resident must receive and the facility must provide the necessary care and services to attain or maintain the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being, in accordance with the comprehensive assessment and plan of care.
Further, Federal Law specifically requires that pressure sores be addressed as follows:
(c) Pressure sores. Based on the comprehensive assessment of a resident, the facility must ensure that—
(1) A resident who enters the facility without pressure sores does not develop pressure sores unless the individual’s clinical condition demonstrates that they were unavoidable; and
(2) A resident having pressure sores receives necessary treatment and services to promote healing, prevent infection and prevent new sores from developing.
See generally 42 C.F.R. 483.25
Simple preventative care like air mattresses specifically to relieve pressure “spots” and “turning and positioning” a resident (from lying in one place too long) can avoid the pressure sores altogether. Make sure your loved one is getting this simple care because once a pressure sore starts, it is quite difficult to reverse, especially in older generations.
You can contact me here 24/7/365 (and I really mean that as I will answer my phone) if you have any questions and to learn how I may be able to help you or your loved one who may desire to discuss these difficult and sensitive nursing home care matters – in particular, you will find that I listen, take your phone calls and e-mails (and even text messages–BUT NOT WHILE DRIVING!!). I would be honored to help you with your matters – large or small.